What is community resilience?
That’s just a fancy way of saying “ways to save our sanity while going through this enormous experience”. It’s really important that we have ways to stay connected, feel valued, and keep our minds working to better enable ourselves to meet the coming challenges.
It begins by protecting the emotional and psychological wellness of ourselves and each other. This is a chance to slow things down and find some silver linings. We’ll be providing an updated list of articles, resources, materials and opportunities.
Our first step is getting you connected with valuable and valid information and outreach resources.
In the coming days, this information will be updated, added to, diversified, pruned and enhanced. If you have ideas, we’d love to hear them!
SPOT THE CHALLENGES
What the Centres for Disease Control (CDC) Has to Say About Managing Coronavirus Anxiety & Stress
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
Changes in sleep or eating patterns
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Worsening of chronic health problems
Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
Children and teens react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. Parents can be more reassuring to others around them, especially children, if they are better prepared.
Not all children and teens respond to stress in the same way. Some common changes to watch for include
Excessive crying or irritation in younger children
Returning to behaviours they have outgrown (for example, toileting accidents or bedwetting)
Excessive worry or sadness
Unhealthy eating or sleeping habits
Irritability and “acting out” behaviours in teens
Poor school performance or avoiding school
Difficulty with attention and concentration
Avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past
Unexplained headaches or body pain
Use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs
KNOW MORE:
What the World Health Organization (WHO) Says About Caring for Ourselves Now
The best ways to help yourself and those you care for during self-isolation include:
Stay connected and maintain your social networks. Even in situations of isolations, try as much as possible to keep your personal daily routines. If health authorities have recommended limiting your physical social contact to contain the outbreak, you can stay connected via e-mail, social media, video conference and telephone.
During times of stress, pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. Exercise regularly, keep regular sleep routines and eat healthy food. Keep things in perspective. Public health agencies and experts in all countries are working on the outbreak to ensure the availability of the best care to those affected.
A near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel anxious or distressed. Seek information updates and practical guidance at specific times during the day from health professionals and WHO website and avoid listening to or following rumors that make you feel uncomfortable.
