Coronavirus: How to Prepare, Not Panic, During an Outbreak

Coronavirus: How to Prepare, Not Panic, During an Outbreak

prepare, not panic, during an outbreak

The coronavirus pandemic has everyone naturally concerned about their health and safety. Different people, of course, react differently to the virus, its effects, and the new restrictions under which they are living now. In the time of an outbreak or any crisis, it is always better to prepare than to panic. Learning how to prepare, not panic, during an outbreak can help you manage your addiction recovery, your sobriety, and your life more effectively in the time of the coronavirus.

You Are Not Alone

The news may be scary, and your newfound isolation may be challenging, but know that you are not alone in your concerns or in your situation. There are options available to you for reaching out to others virtually. Use this time and available technology to stay in touch with friends and family who are positive influences on your life and who have been there to support you through your addiction recovery.

Focus on Facts

Rumors and wild theories fuel panic. Stay informed about COVID-19 and its effects but limit your exposure to social media and news channels. Get the facts about how to protect yourself, how to prepare your home and family, and when it is safe to venture out again, but do not dwell on stories that may or may not be based in fact.

Instead, tune to reliable sources that provide the verifiable, science-based information you will need to properly prepare, not panic, during an outbreak. Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide the facts on symptoms to watch for and on when you should seek medical attention.

Tap into Virtual Resources

As you prepare, understand the options to you to continue your addiction treatment and to get emotional and mental support during COVID-19. Treatment centers and medical facilities are typically shifting to virtual services, enabling you to access services via secure and confidential telehealth options. Support groups are also going online so you can continue to join in and share your concerns with others who are experiencing the same challenges as you.

Keep Yourself Safe and Healthy

The best strategy for how to prepare, not panic, during an outbreak is to ensure that you will remain safe and healthy during the coronavirus pandemic. Take the necessary steps so that you will know what to do to keep from getting sick and to keep from infecting others.

For example, the CDC now recommends that you wear a face covering when you do go out in public to slow the spread of the virus. The organization has provided information on creating your own face mask, as well as how to wear it properly and how to keep it clean.

Other recommendations that will help you prepare for the COVID-19 outbreak include:

  • Wash your hands. Using soap and water, lather up for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer. This is especially important after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze. Use a tissue that you can throw away. And, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth since the virus is transmitted through the respiratory system.
  • Stay home as much as possible. Chances are you don’t have the virus, but officials advise staying home. And, if you suspect you may have coronavirus, call your healthcare provider.
  • Keep surfaces clean. Use a disinfecting cleaning spray or wipes on high-touch surfaces like light switches, doorknobs, your phone, and remote controls.
  • Stay away from sick people. One thing we know about the virus is that it is very contagious.

Protect Your Mental Health

Proactively plan for effective ways to protect your mental health, as well as your physical health, during the coronavirus outbreak.

  • Take a walk, if you can do so safely and within guidelines established for staying at home. Remember to maintain at least six feet of space between you and others who are also getting that much-needed fresh air.
  • Practice mindfulness. It is okay to acknowledge your stress and anxiety. Mindfulness can help you overcome your fears so you will not panic during an outbreak.
  • Continue your addiction treatment. Focus on a successful recovery, knowing that the coronavirus pandemic will be resolved and you will have improved your opportunity to remain healthy because you were prepared.

SOBER AUSTIN CAN HELP YOU PREPARE, NOT PANIC, DURING COVID-19

At Sober Austin, we provide the resources you need to prepare for the coronavirus and its effects on you and your addiction treatment. If you or your loved is struggling with addiction and need to learn more about available resources, please browse our site to learn more about finding support in Austin. Please feel free to contact us directly by calling 512-640-9661 or emailing contact@soberaustin.com.