As people tend to feel worried about the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019, the World Health Organization said that it is normal to experience such feeling during times of crisis.
“It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared, or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help. Contact your friends and families,” the WHO said in its advisory on how to cope with stress during the Covid-19 outbreak.
The WHO advised the public not to resort to smoking, alcoholic beverages, or drugs to deal with stress.
“If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counselor. Have a plan, where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required,” the organization said.
The public was also reminded to always look for a credible news source about the Covid-19 – like the WHO website or through the local or state public health agency.
“Get the facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions,” it said.
“Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you perceive as upsetting,” the WHO added.
The WHO also encouraged individuals who feel anxious to draw on skills that they have used before which helped them manage their previous life adversities. “Use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak,” it said.
“If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle – including proper diet, sleep, exercise, and social contacts with loved ones at home; and by email and phone with other family and friends,” the WHO added.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health said that 498 Persons Under Investigation for Covid-19 has been recorded since early January.
Based on the latest Covid-19 case tracker of the Health department, 159 individuals remain admitted in medical facilities, while 336 people have been discharged after they tested negative for the disease. The Philippines still has three confirmed cases of Covid-19, two of whom have recovered while the other one had died. (Analou de Vera)
