It just does not seem right to put those two topics in the same sentence.

How you respond to stress during the COVID-19 pandemic can depend on your background, your social support from family or friends, your financial situation, your health and emotional background, the community you live in, and many other factors. The changes that can happen because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ways we try to contain the spread of the virus can affect anyone. Increased stress, fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Mental health is an important part of overall health and wellbeing. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It may also affect how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices during an emergency.

People with pre-existing mental health conditions or substance use disorders may be particularly vulnerable in an emergency. Mental health conditions (such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia) affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood or behavior in a way that influences their ability to relate to others and function each day. These conditions may be situational (short-term) or long-lasting (chronic). People with pre-existing mental health conditions should continue with their treatment and be aware of new or worsening symptoms. If you think you have new or worse symptoms, call your healthcare provider.

Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row. Free and confidential resources can also help you or a loved one connect with a skilled, trained counselor in your area.

Get immediate help in a crisis (CDC recommendations 2020)

• • Call 911
  • Disaster Distress: 1-800-985-5990
  • National Suicide Prevention:1-888-628-9454
  • National Domestic Violence: 1-800-799-7233
  • National Child Abuse Hotline:1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453)
  • National Sexual Assault: 1-800-656-HOPE
  • Veteran’s Crisis Line: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Taking care of your friends and your family can be a stress reliever, but it should be balanced with care for yourself. Helping others cope with their stress, such as by providing social support, can also make your community stronger. During times of increased social distancing, people can still maintain social connections and care for their mental health. Phone calls or video chats can help you and your loved ones feel socially connected, less lonely, or isolated.

As the world endures quarantines, closures, and even panic during the pandemic, God offers peace. His Word can displace anxiety and fear with hope and healing.

 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Brenda Lytle, RN
Director of Care Ministries

Reprinted from the October 2020 newsletter.