Panic and anxiety are normal human reactions during times of uncertainty, and given the unusual nature of the COVID-19 pandemic -- both in terms of its duration and its severity --many of us will experience amplified reactions at some point as we progress through this event.
Psychology offers several insights into managing these difficult and uncomfortable emotional states.  First, it is important to recognize that panic and anxiety are contagious.  Excessive exposure to others who are in heightened states, or to media that are focused upon the most challenging elements of the current situation, can amplify our own experiences of angst.  Research has shown that viewing another in a state of distress activates the regions in our brains associated with experiencing distress ourselves.  Recognizing our susceptibility to "catch" others affective responses can help guide us to seek out those who are experiencing calmer states or to "unplug" at regular intervals.  Engaging in good self-care practices -- ensuring we have proper nutrition, adequate rest, engage in regular exercise -- also builds the resilience that supports emotional balance.  Remembering that our affective states can be regulated by pausing, breathing, and -- in particular -- cognitively and emotionally reconnecting to those elements of life that have purpose and meaning for us is also vital to regaining a sense of control.  Perhaps as important, we can embrace contagion dynamics and -- when in a fortified and positive emotional state -- reach out to others who might be experiencing anxiety and panic themselves, knowing that contagion works both ways, and we can positively impact those around us, thereby elevating our collective experience while, together, we navigate the challenges this time.
Answer provided by Dr. Diana Concannon