The novel coronavirus continues to spread, and while the physical symptoms are widely known, the impact on mental health might not get as much attention.

Fear, anxiety and stress can overwhelm adults and children, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Managing these conditions can prove difficult, but will make you and everyone around you stronger.

It is important to remember that everyone handles stress in times like these differently. Those susceptible to stress include: the elderly, people with underlying conditions, healthcare workers, caregivers and those with previous mental health conditions.

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Stress can impact sleep and eating patterns, worsen chronic health problems and increase the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

The CDC offers these four tips for dealing with stress during the COVID-19 pandemic:

1. Take breaks from social media and constant updates about the outbreak.
2. Focus on your physical health. Exercise, eat health, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs. Also take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
3. Make time for activities you like.
4. Talk to friends and loved ones.

Parents should take the time to talk to their children about the outbreak, and reassure them that they are safe.

Health care workers and caregivers should acknowledge if they experience secondary traumatic stress, and consider the four tips listed above from the CDC.