How to survive the pandemic now

The impact of the COVID-19 virus continues.

As the weeks and months add up, the number of infections and related health problems continue to rise. Almost everyone has been affected in one way or another.

Many have become aware of a life-changing medical event, either individually or within their family.

Millions of us have been thrown into the teeth of the economic downturn. Some have lost their jobs or seen their wages reduced.

Normal day-to-day activities such as grocery shopping, traveling, and attending school continue to be compromised, often in the midst of much debate and controversy. Lest we forget, reminders of these events appear daily in the news and on social media.

During these difficult times, it would be easy to face depression and/or turn to drugs and alcohol as the wrong antidote. Instead, here are some action steps you can take to better maintain your emotional and physical health not just now, but long-term as well.

1. Believe in something bigger than yourself. My family and friends have an unshakable belief in God and that God will guide us through this crisis. The United States and the world have faced world wars, famines, and depressions, and the nation has always found a way to not only survive but succeed once the crisis is over. Belief in a higher power can serve as a beacon when times seem hopeless. Also, finding a worthy cause can help you focus on serving those less fortunate, whether it’s feeding the hungry, helping the downtrodden find jobs, or another charitable endeavor. One can certainly find a cause worth pursuing.

2. Develop new goals and objectives. Many are using this time to improve their skills, develop a new hobby, change careers, or find new ways to improve their lives. The increase in the number of housing forms has given people the incentive to learn about potential new opportunities from both a professional and social aspect. People are spending more time exploring these options and reviewing their long-term dreams and aspirations. This provides positive energy as you not only define your goals, but also create an action plan to achieve them.

3. Maintain consistency. Once you set your new goals, check your progress daily. There is technology to monitor your activity on your PC, tablet and/or iPhone. These daily check-ins will help you keep your goals in mind, adjust your plan as needed, and keep you from drifting off course. It also keeps your enthusiasm at a high level.

4. Emphasize communication with friends and social connections. Despite the ongoing lockdown and advice to stay home, many people have found creative ways to stay in touch with friends and colleagues and stay within health guidelines. As has been documented in the media, outdoor patio gatherings can provide needed social interaction. Outdoor physical activities, such as walking, running, and biking with friends, can help maintain social balance and contribute to your physical health. Zoom calls, email, phone conversations, and other aspects of social media can also help overcome feelings of loneliness and despair.

5. Discuss personal challenges with parents and mentors. Young adults and others often feel lonely and disconnected even in normal times. The pandemic has overcome these problems. Discussing one’s personal dilemmas with a spouse or parent can help bring those challenges to the fore and create a worthwhile response. However, those who prefer to pursue other alternatives can join a peer group and/or work with a mentor or coach. Some non-profit organizations offer a trainer free of charge. Coaches can offer a different perspective than a family member, one that is totally objective without the baggage of past experiences. In many cases, the coach may have already faced the same problems as the individual and can offer real-world advice for a better and faster solution.