Pandemic Survival and Hope

By Richard Blankenship, LPC, NCC, CPCS, CBTS, CSRRS

Over the last month we have been experiencing something that few people alive today in the U.S. have ever experienced. The closest thing to this in history was the influenza outbreak of 1918 that claimed the lives of 675,000 Americans. The losses were greater than those experienced in the World War at the time. The only people alive today who experienced this would be at least 102 years old and wouldn’t have memories of this time.

What we are going through is not unprecedented. Throughout history, viruses and diseases have spread throughout countries and claimed many lives. And sadly, we are losing lives to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We are experiencing a cultural denial in many parts of Georgia and the U.S. Many continue to ignore social distancing guidelines prompting increased loss of freedom. More restrictions have been placed on parks and places where people could be outdoors because people aren’t complying with guidelines. It’s the age-old belief that “it’s not going to happen to me.” Some are espousing conspiracy theories and have made it an election year issue. A virus is NOT a political issue. It’s sad that some choose to use it in that way, thus to the detriment of the American people.

The coronavirus doesn’t discriminate. Young, old, rich, poor, black, white, Asian, Hispanic, and even government leaders have all been the victims of this virus. In many ways, this is a great equalizer.

During this time of shelter-in-place orders, it’s important to abide by the laws and guidelines. This is not just for your protection, it’s for the safety of our communities. At Capstone Counseling and Coaching, as a business based in Dunwoody, we support the recommendations of our new mayor, Lynn Deutsch. Please continue to stay home except for essential services. As a counseling center, over 80% of our sessions are now being conducted online through telehealth. We can take new counseling clients throughout the state of Georgia during this time and maintain safety. When you do go out in public, the Center for Disease Control recommends wearing masks. Washing your hands, using hand sanitizer, staying home if you are sick, covering your mouth when coughing, and maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from other people can help slow the spread of COVID 19.

What about survival at home during shelter-in-place orders? Sadly, people are beginning to get “stir-crazy” in our communities. As a culture, we are used to wide open spaces and avoiding face-to-face interactions anyway. That leaves us less prepared to deal emotionally with others during times of restriction. It’s important to remember that the shelter-in-place order is not a stay inside order. Get outside – enjoy the scenery. Take walks. Do yardwork. There are many things that can be done to change the scenery and not feel isolated. Some parks are still open, just practice social distancing. Technology is a blessing and a curse. During this time there are ways to stay connected with family and friends that we didn’t have a decade ago. Make use of them. The downside of the technology is that many are more vulnerable to problematic pornography use and human trafficking. Organizations like NCOSE and Protect Young Minds provide great resources for protecting your children in this area. Capstone has treatment for problematic sexual behavior, betrayal trauma, and intimacy disorders. These services are available online during the pandemic.

Try to enjoy family times. Play games, watch a movie together. If children are old enough you can take turns cooking. This can be a chance to teach children skills that they may not learn otherwise. Use social media constructively.

There are many who are making lemonade out of lemons. Organizations are paying the salaries of hourly workers during this time. The Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, and Atlanta Braves are three examples of this. NBA players have paid salaries of hourly workers who are now without work. Food banks are working overtime. School systems are providing and delivering meals to children who rely on them during the school year. Don’t be a hoarder. Grocery stores are being restocked on a consistent basis. As Governor Kemp said, “leave some for your neighbor.” People are planting gardens who have never done so before. And we have hospital workers and medical personnel who are experiencing pressures that most people can’t imagine. I’m married to one. We pray daily that this virus won’t come home with her. Despite all the precautions, we accept that it could happen. When you have a doctor’s appointment, or you interact with a nurse or other medical profession, take a moment to say thank you.

People have put up signs to encourage one another. One subdivision I know of has people putting teddy bears in their windows so that children can drive around (with their parents) and see how many bears they can find. In Dunwoody, someone drew rainbows on the street in front of many driveways. A performing arts center created signs reading “Everything will be okay.” It made national news.

Let your creativity shine. Give each other some space. Try to keep a positive attitude. Encourage one another and let’s get through this together. As hard as it is, there are great opportunities during this time. Let’s make the most of it.