7 Tips to Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety During the Pandemic

COVID-19: Help Slow the Spread

by UVM Health Network with 7D Brand Studio

Published April 2, 2020 at 1:00 p.m.
Updated April 8, 2020 at 6:43 p.m.

Courtesy of UVM Health Network

Nowadays, it seems as though the only thing people are talking about is the Coronavirus, or COVID-19. This topic brings up a lot of strong feelings of worry and anxiety. Especially now, while we stay home and practice social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus, we need to find new and different ways to manage our stress.

Below are a few tips we suggest to improve your well-being.

Take a few moments each day for meditation or quiet reflection. It doesn’t have to be long – five to 10 minutes makes a huge difference.
Watch a favorite movie, read or do something you find relaxing.
Write down your emotions in a journal or on a piece of paper. If you have a lot of thoughts going through your mind that are making your head spin, getting them on paper can be a stress reliever. Write down a negative emotion, then rip up the piece of paper and toss it away.
Listen to music.
Get outside (if you’re able) and walk. With any physical activity, the release of endorphins will automatically put you in a better mood.
Limit news and tune in to the quiet. Become aware of how peace-filled the quiet can be.
Laugh. Seriously! Even a smile can go a long way, especially if you or someone is having a rough day. Call a loved one. FaceTime with friends near and far. You never know when you will make someone’s day.

To find more advice from UVM Health Network on staying healthy at home and coping with COVID-19, click here.

What You Need to Know:

Slow the Spread: Staying home helps flatten the curve by slowing the spread of the virus. This protects our community and reduces the burden on your healthcare providers.
Remember to Social Distance: If you are outside of your home, keep a distance of at least 6 feet from any other people. If you have a cough, wear a mask to protect others.
Remember Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you can’t wash your hands use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. And keep your hands away from your face.
If You Feel Sick: Unless it is an emergency, please stay at home and contact your doctor by phone or through MyChart. If you have COVID-19 symptoms that are not severe, stay at home and self-isolate.

A message from John R. Brumsted, MD

President and CEO, The University of Vermont Health Network

Sometimes, the simplest tools are among the most effective. That principle applies even amid the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. I want to underscore a key message you’ve been hearing from Vermont Gov. Phil Scott: “Stay home, stay safe.” When you stay home, you’ll slow the spread of this virus and protect your loved ones – especially the most vulnerable. And you’ll be helping to ensure that our health care providers, including the affiliates of the UVM Health Network, are prepared to serve our communities.