The coronavirus pandemic does not seem to be slowing down. Affecting pretty much the entire planet - from China to Brazil and the USA - it has created a tectonic change in the way we behave. It has also put a lot of people under great stress. The often grim news is not exactly helping. COVID-19 is on every channel. Social media is abuzz with (sometimes very contradictory) information. In such circumstances, it is easy to become very afraid. Still, there is no reason to let fear rule your life. Getting informed on the realities of the virus, taking all the precautionary measures, and being responsible to those around you will allow you to stay healthy, live longer but also to get rid of the stress.

Unfortunately, for some people, this will be easier said than done. Pre-existing conditions such as depression or anxiety can put them at greater risk of having a heightened emotional reaction to the situation. Everyone handles pressure differently. Meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and certain other strategies are excellent tools for stress management. It's always good to give them a try. Of course, nothing beats the attention of a loving friend or family member. If you know someone close to you is having a particularly hard time dealing with the situation, you can always find ways to help them feel more relaxed and deal with the psychological effects of the pandemic.

Of course, in order to do this, you should still keep your own head in place. With so much misinformation swirling around, it's easy to think you're already infected. Instead of envisioning yourself attached to a ventilator and giving yourself a panic attack, maybe it is better to consult a doctor. With all clinics booked, this won't be easy. Luckily, you can have an online consultation through a telemed service like Doctor On Demand and put your fears to rest. With a complete assessment, it will be easier for you to adapt to this change, stay focused, and work on staying healthy without fear.