We are living during in unprecedented times. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is presenting extraordinary challenges to both our physical and mental health. We can take actions to prepare for and protect ourselves against contracting this infection. It is also extremely important that we take actions to reduce our feelings of anxiety, overwhelm and panic. I love the quote, "Action binds Anxiety" as was stated by psychologist, Dr. Rick Hanson, in his "Being Well" Podcast on Coronavirus.
YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH
The Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a type of respiratory virus, which belongs to the corona virus family. Corona viruses cause the common cold. COVID-19, however, is new to humans, therefore we don't have preexisting immunity to it. It spreads easily from person to person primarily thru droplets, and as far as we now know, has a much higher mortality rate than the flu. (10 x greater than flu)
PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS:
PLEASE CHECK OUT THESE HELPFUL LINKS:
Dr. Fauci, Infectious Disease Expert Answers Questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A3jiM2FNR8
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
WHO LINK:https://www.who.int/
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH:
The fear of contracting the virus, sensory overload related to rapidly evolving medical information and extensive media coverage, financial concerns, social isolation are all factors which can lead to feelings of anxiety, overwhelm and can cause us to live in panic mode.
Useful anxiety has a protective purpose; it can warn us about dangers in our environment thus compelling us toward positive action (e.g. see above: Actions to Prevent Infection). However, anxiety can be detrimental to us if we ruminate over worrisome thoughts over which we have no control.
REDUCE ANXIETY:
CDC STRESS & COPING:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html
CHILD MIND: https://childmind.org/coping-during-covid-19-resources-for-parents/
MINDFUL SCHOOLS: https://www.mindfulschools.org/free-online-mindfulness-class-for-kids/
Submitted by Susanne Hallisey RN
YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH
The Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a type of respiratory virus, which belongs to the corona virus family. Corona viruses cause the common cold. COVID-19, however, is new to humans, therefore we don't have preexisting immunity to it. It spreads easily from person to person primarily thru droplets, and as far as we now know, has a much higher mortality rate than the flu. (10 x greater than flu)
PREVENTATIVE ACTIONS:
- Wash your hands, for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer (at least 60 % alcohol)
- Don't touch your face, especially eyes, nose and mouth
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow or tissue, throw tissue away immediately and then wash hands
- Social Distancing: stay 6 feet away from others
- Stay home if you're sick
PLEASE CHECK OUT THESE HELPFUL LINKS:
Dr. Fauci, Infectious Disease Expert Answers Questions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A3jiM2FNR8
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
WHO LINK:https://www.who.int/
YOUR MENTAL HEALTH:
The fear of contracting the virus, sensory overload related to rapidly evolving medical information and extensive media coverage, financial concerns, social isolation are all factors which can lead to feelings of anxiety, overwhelm and can cause us to live in panic mode.
Useful anxiety has a protective purpose; it can warn us about dangers in our environment thus compelling us toward positive action (e.g. see above: Actions to Prevent Infection). However, anxiety can be detrimental to us if we ruminate over worrisome thoughts over which we have no control.
REDUCE ANXIETY:
- Practice mindful meditation and mindful breathing, deepen your breath and prolong your exhalation
- Exercise daily, practice yoga, walk or participate in online exercise activities
- Support others by reaching out, making donations, checking in etc
- Maintain Social Connections, by phone, social media, join virtual activities
- Get outside daily, appreciate nature
CDC STRESS & COPING:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/managing-stress-anxiety.html
CHILD MIND: https://childmind.org/coping-during-covid-19-resources-for-parents/
MINDFUL SCHOOLS: https://www.mindfulschools.org/free-online-mindfulness-class-for-kids/
Submitted by Susanne Hallisey RN