Tips on coping and emotional well being during a public health pandemic

The emotional impact of a public health emergency, such as a flu pandemic, can have a significant impact on the mental health of individuals of all ages.

Who is at risk? What will happen? Is my family safe?

People naturally become alarmed and upset when they believe that their health may be threatened. However, during these times of heightened concerns regarding public health risks, it is critically important to take care
of yourself and monitor your own emotional reactions. Tending to your own mental health and emotional needs will make you a better, more reliable resource for friends, colleagues, and loved ones in helping them to better
handle their concerns.

When we don’t know for sure.
Anxiety is related to fear of the unknown. It is normal to feel anxious and worried about a spreading disease.
Coping with your feelings during times of uncertainty can be challenging, but it is important to remember that you are not alone.

People will react emotionally in their own way to a flu outbreak.
Normal reactions include:

Physical
• Headaches, tiredness
• Fast pulse, high blood pressure
• Changes in appetite
• Unexplained aches or pains
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

Emotional
• Panic, anxiety
• Distrust, fear
• Anger, irritability
• Sadness, depression
• Blame
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Increased stress

Mental
• Trouble concentrating
• Problems with work or school
• Memory problems
• Troubling thoughts that won’t go away
• Concern about health issues

Behavioral
• Avoiding others
• Increased substance abuse
• Excessive cleaning or washing
• Being overly cautious, jumpiness

Here are some ways you can cope with stress and anxiety:
• Limit your exposure to graphic news stories
• Get accurate, timely information from reliable sources
• Educate yourself about the specific health hazards associated with a
flu emergency
• Maintain your normal daily routine to the extent possible
• Exercise, eat well, and rest
• Stay active-physically and mentally
• Stay in touch with family and friends
? Spend time with your children and make them a part of preparations
• Find comfort in your spiritual and personal beliefs
• Keep a sense of humor
• Find healthy ways to express your feelings

Stay Connected
The fear associated with a flu emergency can push people apart. People who are normally close to friends and family may avoid contact because they are afraid they might get sick. Fortunately, we have email and cell phones that can keep us connected without increasing the risk through face to face interactions.

If you are anxious about a health risk, talk to someone who can help. This may be a doctor, mental health professional in your community, a family member, or a friend. If you notice a big change in a loved one, friend, or co-worker, reach out to them. Make some time to talk. Watching out for others shows that you care. It can be comforting to both of you. If you or someone you know is having a hard time managing their emotions,
seek help from a medical or mental health professional.

Get Reliable Information
When we face uncertainty about health risks, it is important to keep things in perspective and stay informed. Visit one of the websites below to find out more about the Influenza and how you can take preventative measures to stay healthy and well.

Alberta Health Services
www.albertahealthservices.ca

Alberta Health Link
www.healthlinkalberta.ca

Alberta Health and Wellness
www.health.alberta.ca

Public Health Agency of Canada
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca or www.fightflu.ca