World Health Day on 7 April 2020 will celebrate the work of nurses and midwives and remind world leaders of the critical role they play in keeping the world healthy. Nurses and other health workers are at the forefront of COVID-19 response - providing high quality, respectful treatment and care, leading community dialogue to address fears and questions and, in some instances, collecting data for clinical studies. Quite simply, without nurses, there would be no response.
The NorthCap University is committed towards the community at large in this hour of crisis and believes in spreading right information. We believe that in these times of lockdown and isolation, onus falls on self as well. Everyone needs to implement the same practices as one would on any other day (before the crisis) – wake up, make bed, shower, shave, eat your breakfast, etc. Each person can devise their own routine or framework based on their own habits.
It is equally important to talk about close relationships. Words such as family, mom, and parent are incredibly helpful to use around this time. This is because on one hand, people are worried about what is going to happen to their family members and those close to them, but speaking about these close relationships also increase the sense of stability for the person experiencing stress or anxiety.
It’s vital that we all practice to normalize anxiety. Make apparent to the individual that they are not alone in feeling the way that they do. Normalizing anxiety and sharing personal experiences can feel very validating to the person in crisis, as this shows them that this feeling is normal, and they are not the only one experiencing them.
While self-isolation may be difficult for us all, some populations are more vulnerable to its potential negative effects, including those experiencing child abuse or domestic violence. Data shows that finances can also serve as a stressor. It is important to look out for those working in the economy or others who are confronted with possible loss of jobs and livelihoods. To help those in need, we can all help share factual information about the crisis and raise awareness about the mental health ramifications and resources.
We can also engage in active listening, which means making a conscious effort to hear out not just the words but the complete communication of the person in crisis. In addition, using words such as “brave," "smart" and "proud” when speaking to someone in crisis can show empathy and lead them to feel empowered to move out of the crisis.
During these times of pandemic, all of us need to pay special attention to children during this time. Children are “very imaginative,” and when they hear adults speaking about the virus in a very distressed way, they are left feeling nervous or can imagine disturbing things which can lead to long-term negative effects on the child’s psyche. There is no need to be secretive; they should have some information, but it is important for parents to not overload a sense of worry or anxiety about an invisible enemy.
As fear and anxiety roam large during these uncertain times, it is important to recognize and be grateful for what we have, stay connected those we love and care for, and lend a helping hand to those who need it.
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