The prospects of a global COVID 19 epidemic can be pretty daunting. Worst-case scenarios splashed across news channels and papers. “Up to 600,000 UK citizens could die”. You’re not alone if you’re worrying.
The World Health Organisation has given some advice on coping with the possible stress caused by the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak. We have stated the exact advice below, which is correct at the time of the posting. More information can be found on its website here: www.WHO.INT
It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help, so contact your friends and family if you feel this necessary.
What are the COVID 19 myths?
If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle – including proper diet, sleep, exercise and social contacts with loved ones by email and phone with other family and friends.
Don’t use smoking, alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counsellor. Have a plan, where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required.
Get the facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust such as the WHO website or, a local public health agency.
Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you may perceive as upsetting.
And finally, draw on skills you have used in the past that have helped you to manage previous life adversities and use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak.”
Helping children to cope with COVID 19
Children may respond to stress in different ways such as being more clingy, anxious, by withdrawing, by being angry or agitated, or by bedwetting. You should respond to your child’s reactions in a supportive way, listen to their concerns and give them extra reassurance, love and attention.
Children need adults’ love and attention during difficult times. Remember to listen to your children, speak kindly and if possible, make opportunities for the child to play and relax.
Try and keep children close to their parents and family and avoid separating them and their caregivers wherever possible. If separation does occur, for example, if someone goes into hospital, ensure regular contact via phone or by messages and give them reassurance.
Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible, or help create new ones in a new environment, including school or learning as well as making time for safely playing and relaxing.
Provide facts about what has happened, explain what is going on now and give them clear information about how to reduce their risk of being infected by the disease in words that they can understand, according to their age. This also includes providing information about what could happen in a re-assuring way, for example, if. a family member or the child may start feeling unwell and may have to go to the hospital for some time so doctors can help them feel better.”
How do I learn more about COVID 19?
For more details on our new free Coronavirus COVID 19 online course contact us support@protrainings.uk