Blog | Coronavirus Anxiety

You deserve support.

Knowledge is power. Our experts are answering your questions on how to care for your mental health during these uncertain times.

*Please note: Shine does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have physical health questions, please consult a healthcare professional directly. And if you’re in a mental health crisis, text 741741 to talk with a crisis counselor at Crisis Text Line.

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How does one keep working when the world needs help? I can't seem to be productive at all.

With so much uncertainty, it’s perfectly normal to feel distracted. So, the first thing that I would recommend is to make sure that you...

Apr 3, 20202 min read

All of the 'what ifs' are keeping me from being productive. How can I create structure and routine?

It sounds like you’re feeling a bit stuck. To address this, I would start by scheduling the activities you are hoping to do on your...

Mar 26, 20201 min read

How do I help my loved one who is suffering from intense anxiety?

It's important to just be there for them in a non-judgmental way. Try to engage them in activities that will benefit them mentally and...

Mar 26, 20201 min read

I'm struggling with feeling productive through this unknown. What are some ways to regain my focus?

First, everyone is going through a similar struggle. Being forced to work at home, or to work more from home, is an adjustment for...

Mar 26, 20201 min read

As someone at risk, how do I go about my life while in constant fear about getting the virus?

Focus on what's in your control. You can practice strict social distancing and stay home. And you can focus on taking care of yourself...

Mar 26, 20201 min read

I can hardly sleep, I'm just thinking a lot about COVID-19. What can I do?

Getting good quality restorative sleep is important during a time like this, as sleep deprivation can make it more difficult to manage...

Mar 25, 20202 min read

Can you share some activities to do to distract and keep my mind free of anxiety?

Distraction can be a very helpful tool for dealing with negative emotions.

Mar 25, 20202 min read

I'm scared to cough in public due to the chaos. How should I handle this constant scrutiny?

I have seasonal allergies, so I can definitely relate to this question. A few weeks ago, we were hearing about COVID-19 but not getting...

Mar 24, 20201 min read

How do I cope with the fear that the world will never go back to normal?

We are indeed in a time of massive uncertainty. However, it might be helpful to remind yourself that we, as a human race, have shown a...

Mar 21, 20201 min read

How can I stay mentally healthy as someone with existing anxiety and mental health conditions?

Being intentional about managing your mental heath will be really important during this time. If you have worked with a therapist in the...

Mar 21, 20201 min read

How do I talk to high-risk loved ones about my concern?

In the question, you haven’t mentioned whether or not they share your concern, so I would suggest beginning by finding out what they know...

Mar 21, 20202 min read

How do I manage my extreme anxiety about this virus while taking care of my family?

With all of the unpredictability in which we find ourselves, it is normal to feel some anxiety. Routines have been altered, our ability...

Mar 19, 20202 min read

What do we do with kids who are out of school for a while? Do we eliminate time with friends?

As a parent, I can totally relate to this quandary. The prospect of single-handedly keeping a child entertained for 6 weeks can seem like...

Mar 18, 20201 min read

I want to isolate myself from everything but can't due to work. I think I’m gonna die. What do I do?

I think you are talking for many people when you describe your feelings about the virus, however, its important to put self-isolation and...

Mar 18, 20201 min read

I'm so scared. I don't know what to do. How do I calm myself down?

You speak for a lot of people who are having a hard time staying calm through all of this uncertainty. Having the feeling that you have...

Mar 18, 20202 min read

I feel like this is an 'infodemic' as well. How can I set boundaries and stay informed?

I agree with you about it being an infodemic! Every time you turn on the TV, COVID-19 is dominating the news cycle. Therefore, as you...

Mar 17, 20202 min read

Should my teenager self-quarantine? It will be very difficult to justify without a reliable source.

Current guidelines are really encouraging us to be prudent about social distancing. While it may vary based on region (for example San...

Mar 17, 20201 min read

My family and I are healthy, but I fear we're doomed if we get it. How do I stop fearing the worst?

I agree with you that hearing all of the discussion about COVID-19 and the numbers of reported cases can be very scary. However, the vast...

Mar 16, 20201 min read

I'm not worried about getting sick, but worried about giving it to others. Should I self-quarantine?

The guidelines are dependent on where you are located. Based on the current general guidelines (which could change at any time), a...

Mar 16, 20201 min read

I'm anxious about being sick—how can I tell my work that I need to self-quarantine?

Many people feel anxious about the virus, so first know that you are not alone. From there, focus on what you can control. Depending on...

Mar 15, 20201 min read