The widespread COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world tremendously in the last several weeks leaving many people in the U.S. frightened, isolated and confused with the travel restrictions that have been mandated by state and local officials.
We definitely all need to focus on our mental health during this very strange time period we’re all going through. This can be very difficult because we’re all being asked to be isolated and not everybody has family they live with and some people live alone, so even though we’re practicing social distancing for safety, we all need to stay in contact with people whether it’s our family members, friends or people we work with.
It’s also important that we communicate to the best of our abilities with family and friends we live with because we’ll be around them more than ever before, which could become stressful. Securing alone time for yourself is also important when we feel that’s what we need to do.
As adults continue to navigate their way through this strange and unsettling time, many of them are parents suddenly saddled with the responsibility of helping their children understand why they’re not going to school or able to play with their friends.
This is a time when we can all ask ourselves what can I learn about each family member even though I live with them. Maybe this is a chance to get to know everyone even better, and maybe I can teach my kids some hobbies that I used to do, but don’t have time for now. If you can practice social distancing when the weather is nice, it’s a great time to get outside, perhaps with sidewalk chalk, or try different crafts outside.
With their kids always at home these days, a number of parents have been thrust into role of teacher, which for many comes as a responsibility they never imagined for themselves.
In teaching your children, it might be helpful to remember teaching is not your profession and you’re doing the best you can. Try to set realistic goals about what you want your kid to accomplish and to learn, and then celebrate together when those goals are accomplished. For parents who are working from home with a full-time job, teaching their children for a whole full day is impossible, so you have to adjust those expectations for yourself. Know that your kids are going to be OK and that the most important thing is they’re home and safe, and know that you’re doing the best you can.
This could be such a fun time period of growth for children and adults, and a beautiful time for people to come together and spend a lot of meaningful time with each other. The most important thing to remember is this will eventually come to an end and don’t be too hard on yourself in the process.
People who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their health care provider immediately. If you are ill with flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, please call your health center or clinic before coming to your appointment. At Eskenazi Health, please call 317-880-7666 before coming to your appointment. Health care professionals are available 24/7 to answer questions on symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate care. It is important to first call before arriving at Eskenazi Health.
Megan Hider
Wellness Trainer
Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health Center