International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc.
International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc.
Photo Courtesy of Forbes.com
By: Johanna Flanigan, RN
Team Coordinator
Reduce Emergency Stress Team
Wynantskill, New York 12198
It has been 10 long months since COVID 19 raised its very ugly head in Upstate New York. All we are hearing now is that “Life will never be like it was”, or our “New Normal will not look like anything we could have imagined.” Like any other emergency, most people respond quickly and soundly to address the immediate needs to stay safe. When we are in the heat of things, we can perform appropriately. But what about the long-lasting effects of a pandemic? There are plenty of helpful hints regarding stress management, stress reduction and improving our coping mechanisms, but the excitement is over. We wear masks, we wash our hands frequently, we sanitize everything in sight, we social distance ourselves-that is our action plan. What about the feeling of hopelessness when we take all the necessary steps to protect ourselves but we contract the disease anyway? The number of positive Covid Cases is increasing, as is the number of hospitalizations across the country which only increases the need for more resources. The number of deaths across the county is astronomical! l What about the everlasting painful thoughts of losing our loved ones and not being able to kiss them one more time, or hold their hand, or simply be with them when they pass from this world? What about all those momentous occasions like baptisms, weddings, and graduations that we cannot celebrate because of the “rules?” What kind of long term effect will these have on us and our children in years to come? Can you even imagine what this year would have been like without television, the internet or social media?
Human beings thrive on touch-we have not done that…No handshakes, (elbow bumps do nothing for me), No hugs, No kisses. Personal touch is so important, but we are advised not to do it. Being present to someone else when they are going through a tough time has to be done on the telephone or on FaceTime….hmm, just not the same and certainly those who do not have access to the internet are at a bigger disadvantage.
So why are the numbers of positive Covid cases increasing? It’s called Pandemic Fatigue-people are simply tired of the constant restrictions and rules with no end in sight. During this period the rules don’t matter anymore-people are tired of all the rules and now the number of cases and deaths are climbing! We want normalcy back-but what is “normal?” Worry and frustration can be very intense.
My observations include current coping mechanisms, which are not necessarily healthy choices. Liquor stores never closed in New York. I am certain sales are up along with the sale of lottery tickets-not healthy choices for those with addictive traits. Domestic Violence and violence in our streets have increased. There have been over 100 gunshot victims in the city of Albany since March. The loss of jobs due to the closing of small businesses only adds to the stress families now face. Food Banks across our region are busier than they have even been. On a good note, families who had strong support systems before Covid did all in their power to enjoy the time at home with each other, even if it meant becoming their children’s teachers.
So when will this all end? My take on all of this is that we have to get control of this virus. Different reports give us different information regarding the availability of a vaccine and for those who are not front line workers, or not 65 years of age or older, the vaccine will not be available until the spring or early summer! In New York, we did see a decrease in cases when businesses were closed, people wore masks when in the public and people did not congregate in large groups. School is back in session and teachers, staff and administrators are all working very hard to keep everyone safe. Businesses and churches are open and intense cleaning regimens are in place along with mandatory mask wearing for all customers, employees and congregants. Once we get control, I think our stress will begin to decrease. In the meantime, how can we support each other? First and foremost, stay connected-whether that be via telephone or the internet-call your family and friends to check on their needs. If you are financially able, support the food banks. Taking care of others can be very satisfying. Wash your hands, wear your masks, socially distance and most importantly, stay home if you feel ill, have a fever or are sick in anyway.
I do believe we can get control of this and the lessons we have learned have been tremendous. We need to learn how to live differently -this virus or other viruses will always be with us. Let’s start by taking personal responsibility for our actions and set a good example for others.
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