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As the story unfolds, it's okay to spend time grieving what you will miss — proms, graduation ceremonies, sporting events, family and friend celebrations — and as you do that, it's ok to ignore the webinars and articles dispensing advice on how to be productive during a time of crisis. Really, it's okay to press pause for a minute. Put some Christmas lights up if it'll cheer you up! Once you go through the stages of grief, however, focus on what you can control. Below, I've listed five actions you can take to manage your experience during the COVID-19 health crisis.
First and foremost, take care of yourself, physically and emotionally. As disruptive and stressful as the current health crisis is, it has given you the opportunity to pause and reflect. No more F.O.M.O. and no more trying to balance an intense academic schedule with tons of class project meetings, on-campus and off-campus events of all manner and style, friend parties, family gatherings, competitions, and much more. Consider the current situation a chance to sit back and focus on all the things you may have ignored before, especially your health.
Staying physically active is key to staying healthy, boosting your immune system and reducing your anxiety. Depending on where you live, it may still be fine to go for walks, hikes or bike rides as long as you keep at least a six-foot distance between you and others. To avoid crowds, consider going outside during less busy hours (I prefer early mornings) or make sure you are in an area where it's easy to keep the recommended distance.
Whether going outside is an option for you or not, you want to make sure you stay active even when inside your home. Set a reminder to get up regularly and stretch. Consider indoor activities that keep you moving, such as cleaning and reorganizing your space. Chatting with friends and family on the phone? Why not get up and walk around your home or neighborhood as you do so. If you prefer formal workouts, check whether your local gym offers virtual sessions or find one you like from the many free ones available on YouTube. Dance!
While staying physically active helps improve your mental health, it's not the only way to do so. Facing the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 can take its toll, so keep the following recommendations in mind as you navigate the coming weeks.
What is something you've been curious about doing but never had the time to do? Now is your chance to make it happen. Focusing on a project you enjoy can take your mind off the constant barrage of unsettling news. Here are a few ideas:
Living through a global health crisis will invariably change you in ways you can't control, but that doesn't mean your personal growth during the next few weeks is completely out of your hands. Remember that learning happens outside the formal academic setup as much as it does inside the (virtual) classroom. What's even better is that there are no restrictions when it comes to subjects; anything that sparks your curiosity can now get your attention, even topics you never thought you'd have the time to explore. Here's how to go about it:
Physically distancing yourself from the world does not have to equal social isolation. We are lucky to have technology that can keep us connected, so be sure to stay in touch with and check on friends and family. It would also be fun to write an actual physical letter and mail it to a friend, especially if you've never done that before. You can use the time to expand your professional network, but you may also choose to prioritize fostering an online community of shared interests and experiences:
Communities and organizations across the United States and the world are facing unprecedented challenges and problems. How can you help them solve or address these? Find ways to contribute in your building, your neighborhood, your city. You can volunteer your time and services in person or online. For example, students at the Johns Hopkins Carey Business School created a website to support their favorite local businesses in Baltimore and invited others to do the same.
What are the needs of your community? Reach out to vulnerable neighbors and offer to go grocery shopping for them. Donate blood or funds if you can. Volunteer to help teach and tutor kids in your neighborhood using online tools — their parents will appreciate it. Call or text a friend to support and encourage them. Lastly, remember that one of the most effective ways to help is to simply stay home and minimize outside trips to essential ones only.
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