1

In response to a disease outbreak in the news and media, the first thing I would do would be to
look for information that is not only more detailed but also more reliable about the outbreak in
question. The recent Covi-19 pandemic taught me that the media is not always as reliable and
transparent as it should be. Websites like WHO and medical journals are my favorite sources,
and even better, the consultation of a virologist. As an attending physician, I would be concerned
about being infected and receiving excess patients number. Such concerns can jeopardize mental
health by impairing performance. As a physician, the pressure is more remarkable because
doctors are the most indispensable people whose vulnerability is least tolerated or desired in a
disease outbreak scenario. Stress symptoms may be multiple. In stressful situations, I tend to
have anxiety, panic attacks, loss of appetite with consequent weight loss, and sleep disturbances.
In these cases, I apply behavioral strategies that help me overcome and remove these symptoms:
meditation and autogenic training. I also try to reduce or eliminate, where possible, tasks and
activities that add to the stress. I would seek support from loved ones around me and help from
specialists when necessary, both for venting and as support in assisting and managing my
condition. Once I realize the situation is manageable, I automatically find a psychic balance that
allows me to function again in my profession and my regular duties.

The first thing I would say to patients suffering from stress would be not to underestimate the
importance of these manifestations and the possible negative consequences they can have on
their health. It is imperative that they take time to take care of themselves. My first advice would
be to take breaks from the news on the media as they add stress and worries and focus on things
that we have control over and are positive. (SAMHSA, n.d.).

I remember, during the forced quarantine of the pandemic, when I was worried about my
financial situation: I felt anxious and insecure; no one knew how long this situation would go on.
Ultimately, I decided to focus on the positive side of this circumstance. Finally, I dedicated
myself to activities and hobbies I usually never found time for before. I don't think I've painted
as much as in these months of quarantine! Also, it was Covid that made me discover UoPeople
and finally had me started my long-dreamed academic path.

I would recommend looking for reliable sources of information and following healthy behaviors
such as eating well, exercising, not abusing alcohol and caffeine, and keeping healthy sleeping
habits. I would also suggest relaxation techniques to prevent and treat anxiety states and to
recover positive energy. Connections with loved ones and others who suffer from the same
conditions provide significant support to realize that they are not alone in their suffering. With
severe symptoms, I would refer them to a specialist. (SAMHSA, n.d.).

3.

If that long-distance threat suddenly became a reality in my community, I'd add

recommendations to those already mentioned. These would be of a more precautionary and
interventional nature. At the same time, I would make sure my patients don't feel unattended,
especially in isolation and quarantine circumstances where distancing is mandatory. Video calls
are a valuable contribution to assist and support where possible. I could also send all the essential
precautionary information via email, including important contacts to reach out to in emergency
situations.

I take the chance to thank Mrs. Statton for her support in this course. I appreciated all the
feedback and effort in reaching out.

All the best for the future.

References:

Coping with stress during infectious disease outbreaks. (n.d.). Retrieved October 23, 2022, from
https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma14-4885.pdf

In the job I have problems.

At work, it's better.

I surf the internet.