This mental health guide was written by members of the University of Georgia’s Clinical Psychology Program to provide information and recommendations to members of the UGA and Athens community who are struggling with significant life changes accompanying the COVID-19 pandemic. The spread of the coronavirus throughout the United States and broader world poses a number of significant stressors, each with effects on our mental health and well-being. These stressors include the threat of dying or becoming ill, the pressures of self-quarantine, stressor-induced relationship conflict, and the hardships associated with economic insecurity. A range of mental health symptoms may emerge or worsen during such times of stress. The following sections describe some of these symptoms (Section I), recommend evidence-based and straightforward ways to improve your mental health and sense of well-being (Section II), including how to talk to children during the COVID-19 pandemic (Section III: Children), and provide resources for the UGA community and beyond (Section IV). Your well-being in the time of COVID-19 and a Mental Health Checklist: Section I: The Mental Landscape A guide for building greater well-being: Section II: COVID-19 Action Plan Talking with children during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Section III: Children Important mental, physical, and financial resources at the regional and national level: Section IV: Resources
