MADISON (WKOW) -- During the coronavirus pandemic, it can be easy to feel like we're constantly in danger.

"Those emotional states really wear down our system and it actually weakens our immune system and we don't think the most constructively," Dr. Shilagh Mirgain, a psychologist at UW Health, said.

She says the panic right now is just as contagious as the virus, so taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

"Monitor your own emotions and when you start to get keyed up, the first thing to do is just to calm the system," Dr. Mirgain said. "The second is to put this in perspective."

She equated this current emergency to 9/11 or the Boston marathon bombings, two terrible tragedies that we were able to overcome as a nation.

"We want to take this seriously and really engage in the kind of self-care that will keep ourselves and others safe," she said. "It isn't just a common cold or a flu."

With recent school closures, communicating the situation with your children calmly will also help prevent further harm for your family.

"Stick to the facts. You might want to limit how much your kids are exposed to media because certainly things like social media posts can be exaggerated or there can be misinformation that can scare your children unnecessarily," Dr. Mirgain said.

As large gatherings are being cancelled, she says you should try to have more family bonding time.

"You can do a hobby, spend time outside and certainly prioritize health for your kids and yourself," she said. "We want to be eating well, we want to be exercising and prioritize sleep."

She also said to watch local news and read enough to get your necessary updates but then avoid social media or constantly checking for more information on the pandemic.

If you're really struggling, you should seek help from a professional.

Many of them are going to do telehealth appointments to get the help you need without having the risk of infection.

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Managing mental health in face of coronavirus pandemic - WKOW