Warning: For up-to-date information on COVID-19, go to the CDC or the provincial government’s website at https://covid-19.ontario.ca/
Supporting one another in this pandemic has become more important than ever.
With approximately 1.1 million confirmed cases in Canada, the virus has completely taken over the daily lives of people across the country.
With the pandemic taking over the usual routine of everyday life, the virus has spread to hit different regions close to home. With cases rising and falling, the Ontario government tries to keep businesses running as usual whilst following restrictions, things become more complex with the constant change.
Living through a pandemic has created a new set of social norms. Of those that are fearful and those that have nothing to fear, it doesn’t change the fact that the coronavirus is real. Whether it is a friend, family member, coworker, we all most likely know someone who has been infected with the coronavirus. Although, we might not know exactly how to support someone who may be suffering from it.
If you know someone or know of someone who is recovering from the virus, below are five different ways to show your support as they recover and get back to health:
- Ask How They’re Feeling
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Call them or send them a message and ask sad, upset, whatever it may be. It’s crucial at this moment to listen to one another. People are tired, stressed, and even frustrated with the way the pandemic has impacted life. And that’s okay. It’s important that we acknowledge these feelings and work through them as a team because we need to feel heard and understood at this time.
- Remind Them That They’re Not Alone
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With new information coming out about the novel coronavirus, it can feel pretty overwhelming and we might be unsure of where we can get accurate and correct information. It’s important to know that we should always listen to the advice of health officials and the recommended health precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. But, it’s also important to have that support network of people you can turn to who can offer you words of reassurance and comfort. Offering that reassurance can mean so much in times of uncertainty.
- Leave Them A Care Package At Their Door
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A care package is a great way of showing someone you love and care for them. Fill up a small basket, jar, goodie bag with stuff they like. You could include things such as their favourite kind of tea, ibuprofen, tissues, snacks, granola bars, candies, chocolate. Even include a heartfelt card wishing them to get well soon. Anything to cheer them up as they recover will make all the difference.
- Let Them Know That This Could Happen To Anyone
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Even with precautions and new restrictions laid out as clear as day, chances of getting the virus are still prominent as we go through the world where surfaces and spaces get contaminated. Even while businesses and institutions try to remain open even while following the health and safety guidelines, viral infection is still bound to happen. We are in a pandemic. People will get infected. But it’s important to remember that we must not blame ourselves for sickness, but rather take care of ourselves and take the proper measures to recover.
- Remind Them That There Are External Resources For Support
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When it comes to mental health, even the best of us can experience thoughts or feelings we haven’t dealt with before for the mere fact that we have never lived through a global pandemic, or, any circumstance where our way of life has altered drastically. Mental health and wellness supports have kicked up into gear since as we recognize this shift which is available for anyone who has been affected in some way, shape, or form. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) provides resources on coping with COVID-19 for those who may be experiencing stress and anxiety. Post-secondary students are also able to call or text GOOD2TALK at any time at 1-866-925-5454 or text GOOD2TALKON at 686868.
Let’s stand together against the stigma of coping with the stress of COVID-19 and acknowledge that there’s only so much we can do when it comes to staying safe in a global pandemic. No one should have to feel shunned or outcast from having the virus. We all need to stand together and fight against the virus so that we can all move forward and carry on with our lives.