Seattle Dizzy Group

Adjusting to New Health Challenges

In this challenging and uncertain time, everyone is doing their very best to adapt to new recommendations and stay as healthy as possible. Especially those who are already struggling with a chronic illness may feel really overwhelmed by the many recent changes. 

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, it’s important to try to find/maintain a sense of balance and “normalcy.”

We all have unique circumstances and different needs to consider, so let’s be sure to offer sensitivity and kindness towards others and strive to support each other as we get through this crisis together!

Article: 9 Ways to Support Chronically Ill Folks During Covid-19 Outbreak

Suggestions for coping with and adjusting to new health challenges including special accommodations for the chronically ill:

Social Considerations

As society moves forward towards normalcy, all of us must carefully consider and balance the risks/benefits of our choices including social interactions.  We need to be intentional to find ways to include and accommodate vulnerable people (such as those who are older or chronically ill), who are advised to continue to shelter at home as much as possible.

“We are starting to enter into a new normal. Restrictions are being lifted and we are beginning to decrease social distance, yet we must continue to work together to reduce the risk of viral transmission. Until accurate testing is available and herd immunity is achieved, this can be achieved through self-awareness and communication.

Covid CARE calls in four specific elements to consider and discuss with others as you start broadening your social circles: Container, Agreements, Risk Tolerance, Etiquette. Covid CARE provides us a model in which to move forward together.”

Quote from Medium Article: COVID CARE – A Way Forward to Opening Up Social Circles

“If history is our guide, nobody is going to offer us these accommodations on a silver platter. We’ll have to remind our employers, our teachers, our co-workers, our classmates, and even our friends that we want and deserve to participate in society as it re-opens. We’ll have to be determined, loud and insistent on our right to be included. We’ll have to remind people that the whole world operated over the computer for months during the pandemic and that chronically ill people can continue to stay connected in meaningful ways from their homes.

COVID-19 has brought home to us how interconnected we all are. Chronically ill people are a valuable part of this web of life. As we remake the world in the wake of this virus, let’s insist that we matter just as much as people who have the privilege of health.”

Quote from Psychology Today Article: Covid-19 & Chronic Illness

Physical Distancing & Masks

To help stop the spread of coronavirus, everyone is being urged to physically distance and wear face coverings when within 6 feet of others in public. (Mask policies do not apply to anyone who cannot wear a face covering for medical reasons. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) grants people with disabilities equal access in society and protection from discrimination. Always give the benefit of the doubt to those with “invisible” chronic illness who require exemptions/accommodations and treat them with kindness and respect).

See also:

Strategies for Calming Anxiety Amidst Uncertainty

Ways to Cope While Socially Isolated

*Always use your best judgement regarding personal health decisions and stay home when you are sick. Consult your doctor for medical advice.*

© Copyright 2020, Seattle Dizzy Group. All rights reserved.