Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Of course the coronavirus is a worry for us all. Indeed, I think it uncontentious to state that many anxiety sufferers will probably worry more than most and maybe even catastrophise the situation.

To reduce worry, it is worth bearing in mind several things:

  • The vast majority of sufferers will recover and many will only experience mild symptoms.
  • There are thousands of experts all over the world working behind the scenes.
  • Worrying rarely leads to a solution. On the other hand you can use practical steps to stay as safe as possible: Washing hands regularly with soap and water, cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough/sneeze, stay alert and practice social distancing.
  • Focusing on the worst-case scenario only stops you enjoying the present moment.
  • Headlines can be misleading. There continues to be a huge amount of fake news around.

By Professor Kevin Gournay 

CBE FMedSci
Emeritus Professor:
Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience: Kings College: London
Honorary Professor: Faculty of Medicine and Health: University of Sydney


Tips on how to cope with anxiety during the COVID-19 outbreak

  • Be supportive of those who have diagnosable mental health conditions such as health anxiety or OCD who could be experiencing heightened triggers at this time.
  • Ensure you are receiving your information from factual sources such as the World Health Organisations, NHS etc.
  • Limit your social media intake, follow accounts which make you feel positive and mute those hashtags or accounts which create further anxiety or worry.
  • Find distractions such as exercising in the home or garden, new hobbies and checking in with others. 
  • Take care of both your mind and body.
  • Create a new routine.
  • Create boundaries around your communication – don’t feel you have to check-in with people continually or if you want to speak to someone outside of your support network use charities such as No Panic. 
  • Have a ‘worry time’ where you allow yourself to worry for a small amount of time. Empty all your fears and concerns out onto paper this may help with relieving the pressure cooker feeling in the head.
  • Be honest. No-one is expecting you to be positive every day. It is better to acknowledge all your emotions whether sad, upset, guilty, anxious, angry…
  • Create some calm into your day. There are lots of apps, YouTube videos and Instagram accounts to access mindfulness and meditation exercises. No Panic also have a whole range of resources.
  • Take mindful moments throughout the day, such as when you are brushing your teeth or washing the dishes.
  • Change your mindset; Things are improving day by day.

REMEMBER: You are not alone, we are all in this together and if you need extra support then contact No Panic for a whole range of resources, support and advice.

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