"This is a situation of high anxiety”: Coronavirus concerns affecting mental health

A lot of focus right now is on physical health as the number of coronavirus cases continue to increase, but mental health also plays a big factor during the pandemic. 
"This is a situation of high anxiety and everyone is really worried,” said Dr. Pablo Ibanez. 
Dr. Ibanez says it is how you handle that stress that makes all the difference.
“I think something you can do when you have anxiety is it's always good to have a plan,” said Dr. Ibanez. 
He says having a plan will stop your mind from spiraling. 
"It is always better to just stick with the same routines. Just wake up at the time you usually would, still take a shower, get dressed,” said Dr. Ibanez. 
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"The people that have mental illness definitely can have worsening of symptoms during this time. It is good for them to know that you can always reach out to your mental health professional,” said Dr. Ibanez. 
If you don't already have one, there are resources to tap into, like an emotional support line set up by the state. Just because you can't physically be near someone, doesn't mean you cannot connect. 
"Social distancing doesn't mean that you cannot be in touch with your family and friends over the phone, over Skype, you can definitely and now you have more time to do so,” said Dr. Ibanez.