The Social Impact of COVID-19 and 5 Tips To Keep Calm and Carry On
Most of us have spent the last few weeks sheltering-in-place. Governor Cooper announced a Stay Home order on March 30th after many counties, including Buncombe, had already encouraged residents to avoid going out. The idea is that avoiding large group gatherings would help flatten the curve, keep the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed, and protect the most vulnerable in our communities.
By now, we all know the details: stay home, go out only for essential services and exercise, and wash your hands. In early April, the CDC added a nationwide recommendation that citizens wear non-medical masks outside of the home.
Tip #1 – Our Team
Right here, in our very tight-knit office, we are finding ourselves spread out across the area and at home under different circumstances. Zack, at the helm of GoPrime of West Asheville, is at home as a single dad with three kids unable to go to school. Daniel’s wife works from home but now he’s there too with their toddler. Teona already lived remotely, so going to work and enjoying lunches in the community was an important component of her daily life. Cody, a consummate introvert, has taken on the role of the concerned patriarch checking in on everyone to see how we’re doing.
And the truth is, we’re all doing…okay. Just like all of you, we each have good days and bad days. Every day is a new learning experience as we’re all trying to figure out what’s happening and uncertain about how long this will last.
That’s why we know that checking in on our emotional and social health is essential at this time. We can’t begin to call ourselves experts, but here are just a few things we’ve learned over the last couple of weeks that we want to share.
Tip #2 – It’s Okay to Be “Not Okay”
This is an important one. We’re being told that we need to stay positive, active, and engaged. We’re flooded with encouragement to be more productive, start new hobbies, or learn various skills. All of that is fine, of course. But it also needs to be completely fine to be not okay. This is hard and it’s triggering feelings of depression and grief in all of us, including children. Acknowledge those feelings and reach out for help when you need it.
Tip #3 – Take Time for Yourself
It can be very difficult to take time for just yourself when you’re suddenly forced into a 24/7 at home situation with your entire family. You may be at home with a spouse, children, roommates, parents, or any combination of people. The walls of your home may start to feel like they’re closing in on you, but it’s imperative you find a way to take time for yourself. That will mean something different for everyone. Here’s a few ideas:
- Take a bath
- Practice yoga or meditation
- Bake something
- Play a game
- Watch TV
- Garden
There are no right or wrong answers.
Tip #4 – Try to Keep a Routine
We saw a meme the other day that said “Today is Blursday the Fortyteenth of Maprilay.” I think that sums up the way we’re all feeling right about now. It’s hard to keep days and times in order when we’re not sticking to our regular schedules. That’s why it’s important to keep a routine, or even make one from scratch. Wake up at the same time every day. Get dressed and ready as though you’re going to leave the house. Eat meals together as a family. Set aside specific times for school and work. And don’t forget to schedule that “me” time.
Tip #5 – Go Outside Safely
Going outside, while adhering to current safety guidelines, is still one of the best things you can do. Even if you only go out in your own yard, it’ll be important to feel the sun on your face and breathe fresh air. You can also walk around your neighborhood, as long as you maintain at least six feet between yourself and others. The CDC is also recommending cloth masks for everyone. Maybe you can learn to make them as a family project. You can also buy handmade masks from people in the community or online.
Stay in Touch
I think it’s also important that we stay focused on all of the good things we have access to in this time. Specifically, keep in mind the technology available to keep in touch. Sure, we can always pick up the phone, but the added value of seeing someone face-to-face is undeniable. And with things like Zoom, Facetime, Facebook Messenger Video Chat, Marco Polo, Whats App and more, we are able to stay connected with people we can’t see in person. Family, co-workers, teachers, friends, and anyone else we want to chat with is just a click away. Don’t lose sight of how amazing that is.
We want to hear from you. What are you doing while we shelter-in-place that is helping you keep calm and carry on? We’ll get through this and see you all soon. Do you have any questions about how we’re working remotely? Feel free to send us a message.
