The Corona Virus has recently been determined to be a problem of "pandemic proportion." The World Health Organization has alerted American's to be "prepared" that the virus may come to our communities. People of faith are concerned that this virus was prophesied in the Bible. Economists are concerned as the supply chains that run through China are effecting our world economy. An online news site called MarketWatch.com had a headline yesterday saying, "Coronavirus update: 80,238 cases, 2,700 deaths; CDC warns Americans to prepare for disruption." I received an email from my financial advisor who wrote that the market drop is based on fear and to hold fast to our investments because, "...while occasionally impacted in the short term by epidemics, [investments] are rarely impacted over the long-term." The information we are receiving is limited, fractured, and at times unreliable, so how are we to "prepare?"
As a mental health provider it is our desire to provide you with useful information so you can prepare. Fear drives us to isolate and hide from the world during times like this. Having knowledge how to protect yourself and your family is paramount during these times that can elevate anxity and worry-full thinking. Knowledge is power. For our Encouragers Clients who have concerns about coming to our offices for therapy, we are offering Telehealth services for their sessions. Ask your mental health provider if they offer Telehealth services as well.
Please check out these two links to gain further understanding how to decrease the possibility of contracting the virus.
Additional information about self-care and preventative measures for your family are available through your insurance provider as well as through the World Health Organization (https://www.who.int) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (https://www.cdc.gov) who recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
I pray for everyone who has been effected by this virus, the families who have lost loved ones, the sad measures that are being taken to contain others who may have the disease. I pray that America will be able to keep American's safe, to limit the impact on the American (and worldwide) economies, and to pray for health and healing to come quickly. Amen.