We're living through political and racial unrest — all during a global pandemic.

UMass Memorial Psychologist Dr. Mary-Kate Miller says it can be a lot to handle, especially on a prolonged basis, and recommends that people struggling with the stress of these converging crises make time for self-care and finding hobbies they enjoy.

"Coping with more chronic stress can be difficult for a lot of people," said Miller, adding that she recommends setting up a routine so that "whatever is meaningful to you in your day, really scheduling that in so you don't miss that because of all the other stressors or responsibilities you might have."

She also recommends virtually checking on family and friends during this stressful time.

We also heard more about a recent and seemingly more transmissable COVID-19 mutation from Dr. David Hamer, an infectious diseases physician at Boston Medical Center and professor of global health and medicine at Boston University Schools of Medicine and Public Health.

Click on the audio player above to listen to the full episode.

Segments:
Dr. David Hamer - 2:20
Dr. Mary-Kate Miller - 16:17