Anxiety is a normal response to a constant barrage of bad news. Headlines and notifications related to recent events are taking their toll on mental health in what some call “headline stress disorder.” While this is not a medical diagnosis, the continued anxiety or stress from headlines may cause things like heart palpitations and chest…
As the new COVID-19 vaccine is being administered across the country, many people are feeling a mix of emotions. There is hope that the vaccine will normalize life and relief that the vaccine will save lives. There is also anxiety about its potential side effects, long-term effectiveness and availability. For some, the stress and uncertainty…
How we can comfort and support each other when grieving Grieving the loss of a family member, friend or colleague is difficult. The pandemic has made it even harder for many people to cope. Those who have lost loved ones to COVID-19 or other illnesses may face additional grief and sadness. Infection control restrictions have…
Find ways to deal with negative emotions There is no question that the pandemic has affected the mental health of Americans of all ages. We have experienced months of social isolation, job changes and unemployment, school closures, and other disruptions. This has led to a surge in the number of people reporting high levels of…
With the hope of a vaccine on the horizon, it is important to keep in mind that the global pandemic is still prevalent. It will take time for these vaccines to reach the general population, and the first recipients will be front-line medical workers and at-risk populations. Although the introduction of a vaccine is great…
Normal holiday stressors can be compounded when we miss someone we have lost or are impacted by other hardships. This year, the sense of loss – of a loved one, financial security and a sense of “normal” – has touched many of us due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we’re making plans to celebrate the…
As winter approaches, efforts in many states across the country to control a second rise in COVID-19 infections also mean continued social isolation and hardship for millions of people. High, chronic levels of stress resulting from unemployment and economic insecurity, school closures, disruption to normal routines, illness, and loss have a negative impact on mental…
We all need to be cautious as COVID-19 continues to spread across the United States. However, people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes need to be extra careful. According to the CDC, the risk of catching the virus isn’t greater for those with diabetes, but the symptoms could be worse. That’s especially true if…