Coping with Stress During the Pandemic

Limit COVID-19 News

It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed with stress during this difficult time. But psychologists point out that we are at risk for overestimating our risk, particularly if we are spending too much time tuning into media coverage.  In her article on Science Based Strategies to cope with coronavirus anxiety,  psychology professor Jelena Kecmanovic reports that we have a human tendency to exaggerate the danger of unfamiliar threats as compared to more familiar threats such as seasonal flu and car accidents.  Additionally, the feeling of danger triggered by exposure to the news distorts our perceptions leading to potential overestimation of our personal risk.

Try limiting your exposure to COVID-19 news to 30 minutes a day and keep in mind that your feelings of anxiety can make everything seem more dire.  That being said, please be sure to follow all advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization for staying safe.

If you need to speak with someone urgently about your coronavirus fears, crisis counselors are available 24/7 at the national Disaster Distress Helpline: 800-985-5990.  For additional tips and resources, please see the Boston University FSAO COVID-19 crisis resources page.

From BU Employee Wellness newsletter 4/3/2020