Common Reactions to COVID-19

COVID-19 has caused significant adversity and disruption to many lives across the globe. As
with any prolonged adverse situation, it is natural for us to experience distressing thoughts,
and a range of different emotions.

Some of these common reactions to COVID-19

include:

Worry: Worry can commonly come up as ‘what if’

thoughts or scenarios in our minds that can leave us
feeling mentally drained.

Stress/Anxiety: Stress and Anxiety are like worry but

typically are experienced as more bodily reactions
such as racing heart or rapid breathing

Numbing: At times, we might not feel any emotions

or feel numb.

Avoidance: This is a common coping behaviour. People avoid various situations that they find
stressful. Or they might excessively engage in certain behaviours to reduce their worry and
stress.

Low mood and isolation: We might start to feel low in our

mood and stop engaging in activities or situations that we
once enjoyed. We might also feel less motivated to interact
socially, which can leave us feeling increasingly isolated.

Difficulties responding to practical problems: It is also possible

for our feelings of anxiety and stress to get in the way of
responding to practical problems in our lives.

Session 1: Common Reactions

Grief and bereavement: Many people have experienced the death of someone they love
because of this pandemic. Whether the loss was sudden and unexpected, or you were
prepared for it, it can still provoke strong emotions. Grief reactions vary but can include
extreme sadness, anger, hopelessness, or a feeling you have lost control.

Social stigma: You may relate to experiencing stigma from others, or alternatively, you may
relate to responding with stigma towards others. These reactions can exacerbate our fear
and worry, and further worsen our experiences of isolation and low mood.

In this program, we will firstly focus on reducing levels of

stress and anxiety, and help you manage your worries. You
will also learn how best to manage practical problems.
Finally, we will focus on improving your mood, and
increasing your activity and social connection in the
context of physical distancing guidelines related to
COVID-19. All of these strategies are designed to help you
better cope with this pandemic and hopefully strengthen
your resilience to better face future stressors.

Session 1: Common Reactions