While various states are in different phases of “re-opening,” the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders have required many of us to work remotely. The order also mandated we stay at home and limit our interactions with other people to flatten the curve.
To comply with the stay-at-home order, many of us have cut ourselves off from the outside world. Our only interactions with others outside our immediate family has been through a computer or telephone screen.
While I enjoy my husband’s company, I miss the joy of hugging my children and grandchildren. I long to spend time laughing with my friends and colleagues. I yearn for the opportunity to sing praises to my Lord in my church choir.
Covid-19 has put pressure on families as they juggle working remotely, caring for their parents, and shopping for essential items. Parents are trying to keep their children engaged in the learning and physically active. As a result, stress levels are high.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), outbreaks, like COVID-19, are stressful. Social isolation during times of crisis dramatically heightens stress and increase the mental health risk factors. In a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 47% of adults sheltering in place reported adverse mental health effects as a result of the coronavirus.
While everyone reacts differently to stress, below are several common symptoms of stress.
- Fear and worry about health, finances and loved ones increases
- Changes in sleeping and eating habits
- Increase in substance and physical abuse
- Increase in mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression
Families are facing numerous demands on their time today.
During this crisis, I have been working remotely for more than eight weeks. Because my husband’s business is essential, he has been going into his office every day. However, I spend my days on videoconference calls, answering emails, and talking on the phone.
Because of my schedule, there are days when I don’t leave my home office for extended periods of time. Therefore, my social interaction is minimal. So, when my husband arrives home, I look forward to connecting with him. During our evening walks, we share the highlights of our day and discuss future plans.
The opportunity to go outside and enjoy the sunshine is a self-care strategy to improve our mental health. The Mayo Clinic offers three self-care strategies to help us manage our stress level during a crisis.
- Take care of your body – Exercise, eat properly, get enough sleep, and relax and recharge
- Take care of your mind – Reduce stress triggers, maintain a regular routine, focus on positive thoughts, and draw strength from your faith
- Connect with others – take time to strengthen relationships, support others, find creative ways to connect with family and friends
Implementing self-care strategies will help us cope with the ongoing challenges of COVID-19.
“Stress is not what happens to us. It’s our response to what happens, and response is something we can choose.”
Maureen Kiloran
So how do you as the leader care for your team during a crisis? It’s essential to help your team manage their stress level. Therefore, take time during your meetings and coaching sessions to check your team’s stress level.
Remember, you set the tone for your team, therefore encourage your team to take time to laugh, exercise, and connect.
Are you caring for your team during COVID-19?
#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim
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