The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented global event that has many people feeling fearful and uncertain about the future. Staying indoors whenever possible is a great way for everyone to do their part in stopping its spread, but this can be an isolating experience.
Maintaining a sense of daily routine is an essential part of staying positive. The temptation to stay in bed and watch the news all day can be tempting, but keeping busy can help us maintain a sense of control over our situation. Getting up and dressed can really help, along with doing daily activities in different areas of the house besides the bedroom.
Now is the perfect time for people to do the things they have been wanting to do, but never had time to before. Learning a new language, developing a home workout routine, catching up on a reading list are all great ways to take advantage of this time.
Besides taking up a new hobby, or finally starting a project that’s been on the back burner, staying in touch with friends and family by phone, email, social media or video chat are great ways to stay connected with your support system. These bonds are vital in helping to maintain a strong sense of community with those closest to you.
Most importantly, finding the things that provide hope for each of us individually will help all of us to get through this. That hope may come from spirituality for some or community building for others. Hope can come from the smallest things that people are grateful for on a daily basis or larger achievements or goals. All of these ways of finding hope are valid and important for each of us to remember in these trying times.
Maya Ameyaw