Mental health and staying connected during the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak
The outbreak of the coronavirus COVID-19 has impacted people in varying ways on an international scale. It is understandable that during times like this, people may be feeling afraid, worried, anxious and overwhelmed by the barrage of alerts and media coverage regarding the spread of the virus.
Staying connected to friends, family and your business communities is now more important than ever. The following are some mental health and wellbeing tips and strategies to continue looking after ourselves and each other during these difficult times.
Follow a “calm yet cautious” approach: do your best to remain calm and be mindful not to contribute to the widespread panic that can hinder efforts to positively manage the outbreak. Ensure you are following directives issued by the government, medical advice and observe good hygiene habits. I find that a focus on work and having a pro-active mindset even when working from home distracts me from the other unnecessary noise.
Show compassion and kindness to one another: these times of isolation, fear, panic (both physical and social) and uncertainty are when it is most important that we strengthen our sense of community by connecting with and supporting each other. This can be from helping the people who need it most (in a safe manner) to continuing business conversations to help weed out industry issues in trying times. Remind ourselves that we can manage this much better together in solidarity and that COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate – it can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, nationality or ethnicity.
Actively manage your wellbeing: by maintaining routines where possible, connect with family and friends (even if not in person), staying physically active, eating nutritious foods and seeking additional support by contacting Lifeline or further professional support as required. I ordered some home workout kit to try and stay active during this isolation period. It helps form good habits and energises me to stay focussed on my day to day business requirements.
Staying connected through the COVID-19 crisis
Research after the SARS pandemic in Hong Kong in 2008, provides evidence of the significance of connection through epidemics. It found that residents in Hong Kong experienced increased social connectedness, which offset the negative mental health impacts of the pandemic.
As connection is so important during this time, here are some tips on staying connected to others during this time. Remember – we are all in this together.
- If there is someone you think may struggle through social isolation, it is important to reach out to them and let them know you care:
- Call them to check on their welfare
- Send an email
- Leave a note under their door
- Don’t underestimate the power you have to offer hope to another person.
I would encourage people to get creative with how they interact, here are some ways to stay connected if self-isolating:
Find a buddy, or group of, to set daily challenges with. These could include a healthy habit, a mindful practice, a creative pursuit. Be sure to encourage and check-in daily to stay motivated.
Internal communication within businesses is key in times like these. Set up group video calls for brainstorming sessions or just to have that much needed drink on a Friday that everyone looks forward to.
Make time to have clear communication with your business partners and keep them informed on timeframes and industry news. Help them to navigate the uncertainty and I am sure they will do the same.
If your local community has one, join its social media group! This will keep you up to date with what’s going on directly around you. It may also include ways you can perhaps reach out and connect with someone less fortunate than you and ways to assist them.
Written by: Grant Somerville, Partner (April 2020)
