With the inundation of information at our fingertips, I'll keep this short. Here are my thoughts:
WOW.
OK, I won't keep it that short. WOW is a good place to start though. WOW to the growing severity of this pandemic. WOW to the economic/ financial impact on businesses, individuals and families. WOW TO THE STOCK MARKET.
WOW to the heartbreak.
Never in my lifetime have I experienced anything like this. My 7-year-old daughter asked me on Friday when I struggled to find the words to explain why her school is closed for an unknown length of time, "well mom, what do adults usually do in situations like these?" That's a really good question. It's been nearly a week since the severity of this situation started its a steep escalation in this part of the globe. And what are the adults doing? Are they hoarding needed goods? Are they ignoring the advice/mandates of the government? Are some acting and reacting out of fear in negative ways? Absolutely!!
Do you know what else the adults are doing?
Creating groups that are willing to shop for the elderly and people at risk.
Grocery stores are providing times for only those at risk to shop in an effort to reduce their risk should they need to go out.
Thousands of public parks, zoos, educational programs, and services are rapidly pulling together free online programs to help parents who are now finding themselves homeschooling their children, while also trying to work from home.
Schools are continuing to provide food for kids who rely on school lunches.
Teachers are working tirelessly to provide resources to their students and families.
Honestly, I could go on and on with this list, but I said I'd keep it short. What I have seen more than anything (even if it's less "newsworthy") is compassion, kindness, grace, and community. I have seen humans being kind. And that is what I hope my sweet daughter remembers the adults doing.
If you are struggling during this time with the feeling of isolation, please know you are not alone. Here are a few things I continue to recommend during this challenging time:
Keep a daily routine
Get up, get dressed, and make your bed
Reach out on the phone, text, communicate with friends and family as much as possible via internet if needed
Reach out to your therapist, many have quickly moved to telehealth and are accessible
Take a walk if possible. If not possible sit outside or by a window for some fresh air.
Don't forget to eat and feed your body and your brain well.
Reach out. Reach out. Reach out.
Be mindful of the amount of news you are reading/watching. If it's making you feel bad, turn it off.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline1-800-273-8255 is always available.