We all want to know what’s happening with the novel coronavirus, but it’s giving some people anxiety.
Trying to get the latest updates and protect from risks can be stressful, but experts say there are ways to control stress and anxiety around coronavirus.
Here are five tips to keep in mind.
1. Check the news once per day.
Reading the latest news on coronavirus once daily will keep you informed without constantly thinking about the virus and knowing every detail.
2. Follow recommendations, but don't go overboard.
Sticking to the CDC's recommendations will ultimately help lower stress and anxiety levels.
3. Focus on the evidence.
Focus on the scientific evidence of where the coronavirus stands now in the U.S. Instead of scanning Twitter, for example, check the most recent statistics from the CDC, or speak to your doctor.
4. Think of common-sense precautions to take.
If there are low-risk steps you can take that would ease your anxiety and be useful, go ahead and take them.
5. Focus on helping others.
Precautions --like washing your hands and staying home if you're sick-- are designed to help stop the spread of the virus and to keep the most vulnerable people healthy. If you are anxiously washing your hands all day to protect yourself, re-frame your thinking to say, "I’m keeping the people around me safe and keeping my community safe."