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    As the coronavirus outbreak continues around the globe, the impact of the pandemic is being felt by thousands. 

    In addition to fears and uncertainty over the spread of the virus, the disease is also generating stress in individuals and communities who are feeling the effects on their mental health. 

    To combat the negativity, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has released guidelines that aim to minimise the harmful effects the pandemic is having on mental health and wellbeing. 

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    According to the health organisation, steps such as minimising the amount of news you watch to assisting others in their time of need can be beneficial in helping people keep calm and positive.  

    WHO also suggests individuals “find opportunities to amplify positive and hopeful stories and positive images of local people who have experienced Covid-19.”

    You can find our coverage of the ways you can prioritise your mental health and wellbeing during the outbreak below.

    2020-03-14T15:36:48.753Z

    Hello and welcome to The Independent's live coverage of the ways in which individuals are prioritising their mental health and helping others amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 

    2020-03-14T15:46:58.363Z

    This week, the World Health Organisation has released guidelines for those who feel their mental health is being negatively impacted by coronavirus. 

    According to the organisation, tips for keeping one's wellbeing in mind include limiting your intake of news that causes you to feel anxious or stressed and focusing on positive stories instead. 

    2020-03-14T15:55:37.950Z

    The health organisation also suggests changing the terms we use when referring to those impacted by Covid-19. 

    Rather than referring to people with the disease as "victims" or "diseased," WHO suggests instead using terminology such as: "People who have Covid-19" or "People who are being treated for Covid-19."

    By separating a person from an identity defined by the virus, it is possible to reduce the stigma around the disease. 

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    2020-03-14T16:09:14.713Z

    According to WHO, individuals in isolation are one group that may feel the impacts of the new coronavirus outbreak on their mental health the most. 

    To combat potential loneliness, the organisation advises people in self-isolation or self-quarantine "stay connected and maintain your social networks".

    Those in quarantine can also use QuarantineChat, a new app that aims to connect people who are quarantined. 

    "It's to bring magic and serendipity to a new reality where thousands of people are stuck inside alone for the next month all over the world," the app's creators told Business Insider
    2020-03-14T16:13:59.003Z

    Others, such as Gloria Gaynor, are attempting to bring humour to the situation as a way of distracting people from their fears. 

    As people are encouraged to practise thorough 20-second hand-washing as a method of limiting the spread of germs, Gaynor demonstrated the effectiveness of singing her song 1978 song "I Will Survive" while washing hands. 

    2020-03-14T16:34:05.226Z

    Celebrities including Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, who have tested positive for coronavirus, are also using the opportunity to suggest fun things for those also in quarantine to do. 

      

    For Wilson, this meant releasing a Spotify playlist she named "Quarantunes".

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    2020-03-14T16:38:30.620Z

    On social media, people are sharing their own stories of good deeds to remind others of the importance of helping those who are at higher risk of contracting the virus, such as the elderly. 

    According to professional runner Rebecca Mehra, she was recently visiting a grocery store in Oregon when an elderly woman called to her from a crack in the window of her car and asked if she would buy her groceries because she and her husband were "afraid to go in the store". 

    You can read the heartwarming Twitter thread here
    2020-03-14T16:44:26.553Z

    In Italy, where the virus has resulted in a nationwide lockdown, residents are keeping their spirits up from the confines of their homes by joining together in song. 

    A video of the impromptu singing recorded in Siena, Tuscany went viral, with many calling it a "beautiful" act of humanity.

    2020-03-14T17:27:28.800Z

    In addition to protecting yourself, the World Health Organisation has also shared recommendations for helping others maintain their mental health and wellbeing during the pandemic. 

    You can read our coverage of the WHO's full list of guidelines for the general population, healthcare workers, parents or care providers for children, older adults and those in isolation below.

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    2020-03-14T17:33:35.630Z

    For more information on what exactly self-quarantining and self-isolation are, we have explained the differences between the terms, and when, if ever, the measures should be followed. 
    2020-03-14T17:40:07.326Z

    As more and more individuals opt to self-quarantine in an effort to curb the spread of germs and protect those who may be more susceptible to the virus, many communities have begun efforts for ensuring people have the resources they need.

    In Cornwall, a woman named Becky Wass, came up with the idea for a postcard aimed at helping those in isolation. 

    "Hello! If you are self-isolating, I can help," the cards read, alongside spaces for a name, address, phone number and possible tasks that the individual might need help with, including "picking up shopping" and "a friendly phone call".

    According to Wass, the cards, which have gone viral on social media with the hashtag #viralkindness, are a way for neighbours to help one another while avoiding physical contact. 

     

    2020-03-14T19:12:17.953Z

    According to WHO, people should try to stick to their daily routines as much as possible in an effort to priortise their wellbeing - which includes continuing to engage in exercise. 

    This is what you need to know about going to the gym amid the coronavirus outbreak. 

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    2020-03-14T19:55:37.000Z

    Focusing on positive news stories such as the one below can also be helpful for individuals who feel overwhelmed by the coronavirus outbreak. 

    2020-03-14T21:00:37.000Z

    If you are struggling to curb your anxiety over the virus, you can try following useful tips psychologists have shared with The Independent, which include keeping a written record of your worries and taking practical steps. 

    2020-03-14T21:15:37.000Z

    If find yourself having to work from home as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, it can be difficult to adjust to the switch, especially if you live with roommates or feel like you'll struggle to change out of your pyjamas once you're no longer in an office setting. 

    Fortunately, there are ways to keep yourself motivated and productive from home, which you can find below. 

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    2020-03-14T21:20:37.000Z

    The WHO also acknowledges that it is normal for the pandemic to cause concern. During these moments, the organisation advises putting your own needs first. 

    The guideline reads: "During times of stress, pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing."

    2020-03-14T21:25:37.000Z

    In addition to considering your own mental health, the WHO also reminds people to check in on the other people in their lives, such as family members, neighbours, friends or colleagues if they have the capacity. 

    "Working together as one community can help to create solidarity in addressing Covid-19 together," the organisation states

    You can find the rest of the WHO's guidelines below. 

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