COVID-19: Almost a Year Later, Steps to Help Cope

More than 400,000 people have died from COVID-19 in this country since the pandemic began and some public health experts predict the death toll could hit 500,000 people by the end of February. In fact, the United States has seen more total coronavirus deaths than anywhere else in the world.

Each of these tragic losses leaves behind loved ones who are grieving, and the American Red Cross has developed its Virtual Family Assistance Center (VFAC) to support them. People can visit the center and find a support hub for those struggling with loss and grief due to the pandemic. The Red Cross Integrated Condolence Care Program offers special virtual programs, information, referrals and services to support families in need. 

STRESSFUL TIMES This last year has been particularly stressful for everyone. As many as 24,126,100 people (as of January 19) in the U.S. have become infected, more than 10 million are out of work, masks have become the norm and we have all learned how to social distance.

All of this can lead to strong emotions and anxiety. For instance, social distancing and staying home can make you feel lonely and isolated. Your financial situation or loss of employment can lead to fear and worry. Many of us are concerned about our own health and that of our loved ones.

Being exposed to the virus can lead to its own set of problems. Having COVID-19 is stressful as is the monitoring that goes with it. It is stressful to be separated from others and you may be frustrated because friends or loved ones are afraid you will give the virus to them. You may worry about being re-infected or feel guilty about not working or taking care of your children.

Homeschooling your children is yet another stress factor during the pandemic. Parents try to work from home and still see to their youngster’s education. Children are upset that they can’t see their friends or engage in their extracurricular activities.

During these worrisome days, the Red Cross has information people can use to cope with the pandemic.

STEPS TO HELP COPE

People may be experiencing many different emotions like fear, anger, confusion and disbelief. These are all normal feelings in this type of situation. Their reactions appear in different ways, not only in the way someone feels, but in the way they think and what they think about; their sleeping habits, how they go about daily living; and the way they interact and get along with others. Here are a few steps to help people cope:

• Stay informed through trusted resources like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
• Maintain social connections through phone calls or video chats to feel less isolated.
• Take care of your emotional health. 
• Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row. Free and confidential resources can also help you or a loved one connect with a skilled, trained counselor in your area.
• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water and get enough rest.
• Be patient with yourself and others. It’s common to have any number of temporary stress reactions such as fear, anger, frustration and anxiety.
• Encourage children to express their feelings and thoughts. Reassure them about their safety.
• Relax your body often by doing things that work for you—take deep breaths, stretch, meditate or pray, or engage in activities you enjoy.
• Pace yourself between stressful activities and do something fun after a hard task.

If you find yourself or a loved one experiencing some of the feelings and reactions listed below for two weeks or longer, this may be a sign that you need to reach out for additional assistance.

• Crying spells or bursts of anger
• Difficulty eating
• Difficulty sleeping
• Losing interest in things
• Increased physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches
• Fatigue
• Feeling guilty, helpless or hopeless
• Avoiding family and friends

If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or someone else, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).