LCSD COVID-19 Mental Health Awareness Volume I | Page 28
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Coping With Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
What You Should Know
When you hear, read, or watch news about an outbreak of an infectious disease such as Ebola, you
may feel anxious and show signs of stress—even when the outbreak affects people far from where you
live and you are at low or no risk of getting sick. These signs of stress are normal, and may be more
likely or pronounced in people with loved ones in parts of the world affected by the outbreak. In the
wake of an infectious disease outbreak, monitor your own physical and mental health. Know the signs
of stress in yourself and your loved ones. Know how to relieve stress, and know when to get help.
Know the Signs of Stress
What follows are behavioral, physical, emotional, and cognitive responses that are all common signs of
anxiety and stress. You may notice some of them after you learn about an infectious disease outbreak.
YOUR BEHAVIOR:
An increase or decrease in your energy and
activity levels
An increase in your alcohol, tobacco use, or
use of illegal drugs
An increase in irritability, with outbursts of
anger and frequent arguing
Having trouble relaxing or sleeping
Crying frequently
Worrying excessively
Know When To Get Help
You may experience serious distress when you hear
about an infectious disease outbreak, even if you are
at little or no risk of getting sick. If you or someone
you know shows signs of stress (see list at left) for
several days or weeks, get help by accessing one of
the resources at the end of this tip sheet. Contact
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline right away
if you or someone you know threatens to hurt or kill
him- or herself or someone else, or talks or writes
about death, dying, or suicide.
Wanting to be alone most of the time
Blaming other people for everything
Having difficulty communicating or listening
Having difficulty giving or accepting help
Inability to feel pleasure or have fun
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