Hi all. Let’s cut to the chase, COVID-19 is a colossal presence right now. It dominates many aspects of our lives, and it is taking up a lot of space. But it doesn’t have to be all-consuming. Want some tips for keeping sane when everything in the world seems so crazy? Check out this great How-To piece from guest blogger Lisa Fuqua.
DON’T Hover over the Coronavirus Number of cases links. Check it once a day (or twice if you feel you need to), otherwise, leave it alone.
DON’T check your stocks, investments.
DON’T buy into the media hype. Pick and choose a couple of objective sources, and stick to that. The sensationalism and mishandling of the event by our media is, as always, shameful. Keep a clear head, and maintain minimal involvement in reading the media each day. Get the facts, move on. Get some sunshine.
DON’T get sucked into rants on Facebook threads. People are crazy right now. Don’t get involved. Many are just into arguing, it is their thing, and they will not stop just because you post your rational views on the subject. They are scared, this is how they are dealing with it.
DON’T accept possible misinformation as truth, even if it comes from those around you. Do the research for yourself. Don’t take information as face value and pass it along as truth, perpetuating the knee jerk panic response.
DON’T lose faith in people because they are, in your mind, acting irrationally. Those around you are in different stages of fear. Age, financial burdens, and family issues may compound that. For instance, this may be the first time a young mother has experienced a crisis of this kind of magnitude. The virus, the financial implications for her family, or even a death of a close loved one may all be new experiences, whereas an older person has experienced death and financial loss over the years, and may have a better handle on it.
DON’T hoard. Buy what you need, and maybe a little extra for those in need around you. Leave the rest.
DON’T: Socially isolate. Social Distancing does not mean you can’t still connect with others. Make it a point to learn how to Facetime, Skype, Zoom with a group. Stay in touch with the rest of the world.
DON’T Panic. We are here. And this too shall pass.
Consider this…
DO: Have confidence in yourself to make thoughtful, rational decisions about where you go and how you handle yourself during this event. You don’t need to shout your decisions from the rooftops because whatever you choose to do right now (go to the store at a certain time, for instance, or just go for a walk), there will be someone who could: A). Accuse you of doing something not safe or necessary (thereby putting others in danger) or B). Accuse you of fear mongering and buying into the mass hysteria. Just make your decision, be thoughtful, and own it.
DO for others. Always be LOOKING for ways to help others. Check on your friends, family and neighbors. If you end up with extra TP or hand sanitizer or wipes, message and call around to those you trust to see who might need it, especially the big families out there. Even if your neighbor doesn’t need it, they may know someone who does. There are also lots of creative ways to support local businesses as you help others.
DO: Use your wisdom to calm others. Nothing good comes from scaring or shaming others.
DO: Some type of art, writing, etc. Consider giving it away to friends, family, neighbors, First Responders, etc. Who knows, it might just make their day.
DO understand your personality traits that serve to make YOU feel better. Example: if humor helps you in crisis, then by all means, find a social media group that has like-minded thoughts. Post and read funny memes with no judgement of being told you are making light of the situation. Or, if you find solace in religion, be proactive; tap into that and find others that do the same, with no judgement from those that don’t believe as you do.
DO give extra care to the relationships with the people you are sheltering with. Use extra kindness patience and understanding, try to avoid hurtful comments. Identify a space to separate when needed (ie front porch, office, garage).