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We are all dancing on blades, a razor’s edge. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed and tested the strength of our families, economy, governments and numerous other essential constructs that maintain various qualities of life — some that could mean life or death for many.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and being confined to closed quarters continues to push many people to their limits. We see many families struggling to assume the role of educator, employee, chef and wellness activities coordinator. Divorce rates are up, and reports of increasing rates of domestic violence have tripled in some countries like China, France and Spain, according to Reuters. Brazil estimates domestic violence reports have jumped 40 to 50%, and Italy has also indicated reports of domestic violence are on the rise.

While many are worried about spreading COVID-19, it is important to remain aware that fear and anxiety about the virus and its impact can trigger overwhelming responses in adults and children, and exacerbate mental health crises many communities have struggled addressing. In a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll, many adults in the United States, almost half (45%), reported that the virus has negatively impacted their mental health. Many people have lost jobs or had their income reduced; they are falling behind on bills and having a hard time maintaining household expenses. This implicitly affects spousal and family relationships to reiterate the aforementioned.

Here are a few tips from the Center for Disease control on how to cope with the stress during the pandemic:

Take breaks from watching, reading or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
Take care of your body. Exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep.
Take deep breaths, stretch and or meditate.
Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
Avoid alcohol and drugs.
Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

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