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Student Health Services

COVID-19 Mental Health

The outbreak of COVID-19 has disrupted the normal rhythm of life in individuals and in the collective. We all respond differently to stressful situations, and feelings change over time. You may feel anxiety, grief, worry and even anger. Your emotional responses are not right or wrong. You are unique, and your feelings are totally yours.

Stress and anxiety related to the novel coronavirus is normal. The fear of the unknown can at times feel overwhelming. During this trying time, taking care of your mental health is essential. See below for resources, information, tips and strategies on how to best manage stress and anxiety in this turbulent time.

Most of us will survive this pandemic. Survival does not take away from the importance of having lived through these unprecedented times. We will get through this together. The potential for finding meaning is immense!

Be Well. Learn Well.

Clemson COVID-19 Lab

Tips for Your Well-being

  • Practice social distancing

    Consider your role in decreasing the transmission of the virus. Even if you are in the low-risk category, your role is critical in limiting the transmission to others. Tap on your capacity to consider the well-being of others as we all face this COVID-19 life experience together.

  • Stay informed

    Aim to get the facts, and adopt a more analytical approach to information about the outbreak. Verify information, and lean on trusted news outlets that avoid sensationalism. The Clemson University COVID-19 web page is an excellent starting point. Limit exposure to the news to no more than 30 minutes per day.

  • Avoid drawing firm conclusions, and take a flexible attitude

    The plans you had prior to the COVID-19 outbreak are undergoing revisions. It is normal to feel a sense of loss. Accept that attaining your goals is still possible — just through a different way.

  • Stay connected

    Social distancing does not mean social disengagement. Staying connected is going to take some creativity. Take the challenge to find ways of maintaining your social networks. Calling, texting or chatting on social media platforms are still useful. Scheduling a virtual lunch can be enjoyable.

  • Mind the body

    Often, in response to stress, we may over eat (nervous eating), or our appetite may decrease to the point that we have to remind ourselves to eat. Make it a point to eat at least three times per day, and aim for well-balanced meals. Engage in exercise, and get plenty of sleep.

  • Structure your day

    You have learned to abide by deadlines before COVID-19 and are being challenged to adapt. Transitioning to e-learning still retains the deadlines, but the customary structure of going to class is no longer. Set up a rhythm to your day. Aim to get up and go to bed at the same time each day. Go through your grooming routine, and get dressed for class. Structure your study time, and do not overlook your breaks.

  • Know when to seek additional help

    If your reactions are still overwhelming and pervasive after your attempts at self-help, consider contacting CAPS.

Student Health Services
Student Health Services | Redfern Health Center, 735 McMillan Road, Clemson, SC 29634