NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Staying healthy physically and mentally can be tough these days as we stay at home to flatten the curve.
If you’re struggle with depression, anxiety and difficulty falling asleep, then you’re not alone. Nearly half of Americans feel COVID-19 is hurting their mental health. Now, with a few clicks, you can talk to a professional for free.
During Mayor John Cooper's most recent update on the coronavirus, he says telehealth providers can help with more than just if you’re sick. Now, they have mental health professionals available to talk to you virtually.
It’s important for everyone to stay connected through the phone as much as possible.
“I urge everyone to continue caring for their mental health as well as their physical health, as we confront coronavirus as a community,” Mayor John Cooper said.
An expert says it’s important to stop excessive drinking and start journaling your thoughts and feelings.
Click here for more resources.
If you or someone you know if having thoughts suicide call 1-800-273-8255 to speak to a counselor. The call is free, confidential and available.
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- Donate to the COVID-19 Middle Tennessee Emergency Response Fund
See all our coronavirus coverage here
COUNTY-BY-COUNTY CASES IN TENNESSEE
What is COVID-19 (a.k.a. the new coronavirus?)
According to the World Health Organization, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Examples include the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV)and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. COVID-19 stands for "Coronavirus disease 2019," which is when this strain of the coronavirus was discovered.
What are the symptoms?
The CDC says patients confirmed to have the 2019-nCoV reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Or at least two of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
At this time, the CDC believes symptoms could appear as soon as two days after exposure, or as long as 14 days.
Prevention
The CDC is recommending "common sense" measures such as:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
