Saturday 28 March 2020

Anxious about COVID-19?

The last three months have been fraught with sad events stemming from the Corona Virus, COVID-19. I left England for an overseas trip just ahead of the current disruptions and restrictions. Many countries are only just entering the first phase of discovery and management of the virus.Where-ever you are, someone is probably affected by the impartial attack of COVID-19. As I write, I am saddened by the devastating global impact of the virus. To-date, according to WHO's Director-General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, there are more than 500 000 COVID-19 confirmed cases and over 20 000 confirmed deaths. With such numbers, it will be difficult to quantify the total number of grieving family members and friends.However, in the face of this tragedy, globally more than 100 000 persons have recovered from COVID-19. 

Social media and other platforms are rife with ways that we can keep our bodies safe from the viral invasion, for example, by social distancing. Some people without the virus are self-isolating, and this includes from their family members. Schools, nurseries, churches, airports, organisations even countries are on lock down. It is a difficult time. No-one could have imagined such a catastrophe with global impact potentially greater than the two World Wars.

Thousands are struggling with anxiety and fear as their mental health is severely challenged. Fear driven by uncertainty and the overwhelming, abundance of information on the internet; fear of what is coming; fear of what could happen; fear of the isolation caused by social distancing; fear derived from living in close contact and for longer periods with an abusive spouse or child. Fear can cause loss of sleep which in turn compromises the immune system. Financial hardship is beginning to hit home. People need answers for their specific situations and when this support is not available, it becomes worrisome.

As we grapple with the current reality, it is essential that we take care of our mental health. Self-care is essential before other-care. If we neglect to take care of ourselves in this climate, we will eventually become dysfunctional. Talking things over is always good and seeking professional help must not be ignored.Organisations such as Samaritans in the UK,  counselling associations many of whom are recruiting volunteers to assist with the high numbers of callers, and many churches have provided virtual assistance. As help is sought, it is important at this time to only visit recognised information hubs to avoid misleading, fake news. Finally, as we protect ourselves, let us seek for those things which show kindness and bring peace. Shalom.

Until,
Jo-Ann Rowland