By Dr. Christopher Young M.D, | Medical Director - Wellmore Behavioral Health
The outbreak of corona-virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include •	Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for COVID-19 •	Children and teens •	People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors and other health care providers, or first respondents •	People who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others call •	911 •	Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. (TTY 1-800-846-8517) Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include •	Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones •	Changes in sleep or eating patterns •	Difficulty sleeping or concentrating •	Worsening of chronic health problems •	Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs