November 9, 2021

EPIC Exchange
Click to subscribe to newsletter and announcements button

Don't keep this great resource to yourself! Please share it with your colleagues and networks. If you would like more information on Emergency Preparedness and Response, visit CDC's Emergency Preparedness & Response website.

A picture of words describing mental health.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major effect on our lives. Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful and overwhelming, and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Learning to cope with stress in a healthy way will help you, the people you care about, and those around you become more resilient.

Healthy Ways to Cope with Stress 

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. The changes that can happen because of the COVID-19 pandemic can affect anyone. Coping with stress in healthy ways during the COVID-19 pandemic will make you, your loved ones, and your community stronger.

  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media.
  • Take breaks to unwind through yoga, music, gardening, or new hobbies. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.

 Take care of your body:

  • Get vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
  • Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco, and substance use.
  • Continue with routine preventive measures (such as vaccinations, cancer screenings, etc.) as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
  • Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While physical distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
Connect with your community- or faith-based organizations. While physical distancing measures are in place, try connecting online, through social media, or by phone or mail.

Avoid Increased Alcohol and Substance Use

You may experience increased stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Increased stress can lead to increases in alcohol and substance use. If you or someone you care about is starting to use alcohol or other substances, or is increasing their use during the COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few suggestions that may help:
  • Call the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service (1-800-662-HELP) to speak with someone about an alcohol or substance use problem.
  • Contact your healthcare provider.
  • Take medicine as prescribed and continue your therapy, treatment, or support appointments (in person or through telehealth services) when possible.
  • Get immediate help in a crisis.
  • Medication-assisted-treatment for alcohol or opioid use disorders may be an option.

Additional Resources and Support Services 

Disclaimer: Non-CDC content is provided for informational purposes only. Inclusion in this newsletter is not intended to indicate actual or implied endorsement. Information is provided ”as is.” Users are encouraged to evaluate these tools and make their own determination about usefulness and effectiveness. 

Contact Us

Email Icon


Email: EPIC@cdc.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30329 

Questions?
Contact CDC-INFO
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: 888-232-6348