Now, with hope on the horizon in the form of multiple vaccines that may soon gain FDA approval, we may begin to have a more positive outlook on the state of the pandemic. Experts warn, however, that we should not ease caution just yet. The most recent spike in COVID-19 cases around the country is evidence of what happens when we do just that. Defying recommended restrictions—especially as colder weather pushes people indoors—has caused the virus to spread in places that were once able to flatten the curve. Microbiologist and immunologist Andrea Love, PhD, says, “This virus is both elegant and insidious, which complicates the ability to quell the rampant outbreak. Mask-wearing and limiting person-to-person interaction is key to mitigating community spread, and this includes anytime you are indoors where the chance of airborne transmission is highest.” She explains that COVID-19 has a long incubation period of two to 14 days, and people are most contagious before they even show symptoms. According to Love, “While it is encouraging that we have several promising candidates on the horizon, it is still going to take time before we have mass uptake of a vaccine. It is anticipated that limited distribution might be available by the end of the year or early 2021, but widespread access for the general public won’t be until well into next year.” Even after the vaccine is available, Love says that around 65% of the population will need to be vaccinated before we can obtain herd immunity. With the uncertain timeline, it may feel like running a never-ending race. So how do we stay sane while waiting for a glimpse at the life we once knew?
Expect the Unexpected
That is what mental health expert Aaron Bernard, MS, has been telling his clients. “This year has been one big trigger. We thought that the quarantine would last a couple of weeks. Then three months. None of us could believe that more than six months later, we’d still be here.” He explains that with the changing seasons, many are losing the ability to be outside and with others. “People are missing birthdays, funerals, and weddings are canceled, everything is canceled. So moving forward into the colder months, of course people might be on edge. I recommend that my clients stay as proactive versus reactive, as possible. No matter what, give everyone and yourself grace.” Bernard says that practicing self-care is necessary for coping. “If you’re in a warmer area, go for walks around the block, put your mask on, and get fresh air. Keep your appointments with doctors and therapists, even if they’re virtual. I also recommend reading books, listening to music, and allowing yourself to laugh. Eat well, but allow yourself a donut, or order takeout. Just be kind to yourself.”
Be Innovative
Workout programs and classes have moved online, which has made it easier to work towards mental and physical fitness, as well as taking on creative projects. Considering the unemployment rates during lockdown, this has been a key to maintaining mental health for a lot of people. COVID-19 has introduced us to the first women’s recession. In September, 865,000 women left the workforce, an alarming 80% of the 1.1 million people who were no longer working or looking for work. Brit Morin, the founder and CEO of Brit + Co, felt compelled to help. “When I realized how much this pandemic affected women, it was clear to me that we needed to forge new opportunities for women, even during a crisis. So, I quickly curated everything I’ve learned during my decade-long entrepreneurial journey into a signature course called Selfmade, and we launched our first cohort of 200 women in June.” Morin explains that over the 10 weeks of her Selfmade course, women had the opportunity to learn skills that could lead to innovation and the creation of new opportunities for themselves. Her website also offered over 120 digital courses, many free of charge. “As a result, we’ve received messages from women who were able to learn a new skill, either for a mental health break, or to put into action and earn money.” Platforms like Morin’s are useful for women in transition, which is where Christina Tarantola, PharmD, saw herself a few years ago. She made a dramatic career change from pharmacy to becoming a transformational coach. With her young yet lucrative business Enlightened Wellness Solutions, she’s had to switch gears again because of the pandemic. “I’ve pivoted my transformation coaching business to be 100% online through virtual retreats, online events, and digital VIP sessions with clients.” Tarantola has tried to remain curious and optimistic during the pandemic and around this year’s unrest. This has been a challenge, but it has spurred her creativity. “I believe that what you focus on, you feel, and where your attention grows, your energy expands. I’ve intentionally decided to focus my energy on creation during 2020," says Tarantola. While social distancing, I’ve decided to start working on my fourth book to help empathic women master their energy and discover their soul gifts out in the world.” Many sites such as Coursera and Udemy offer online courses, some from elite colleges like Stanford and Harvard. These could also help you hone in on a new skill or hobby, such as photography or web design. Until there is a widely available vaccine, Love recommends continued safe practices, “Masks, limiting indoor interactions, physical distance from others, and limiting the number of persons you interact with will have to be continued—even after a vaccine is officially released. Until we have widespread immunization, we must continue to be vigilant with these other methods to slow the spread of COVID-19.” The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.
