Tempe/Glendale, Arizona.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many changes to our daily lives in terms of how we socialize, how businesses operate, and most importantly - how we maintain and prioritize the health and well-being of ourselves and our families. Over the past few months, this global threat to public health has been addressed with different prevention efforts and protocols across various parts of the world, and has even changed from state to state here in the U.S.
According to CNN, Arizona has seen a significant increase in Coronavirus cases, which has affected the structure of reopening plans for various businesses and schools. In light of this, there has been increased division in public opinion surrounding the virus and how to safely move forward as a society in a “new normal”. Everyone is affected differently by the virus in a multitude of ways. Some may have experienced the virus first-hand or have lost friends or family members. Many have lost their jobs and livelihoods from layoffs or industry-related closures. Others may have not had any direct experience with the virus aside from self-quarantine and adjusting to new social distancing practices. It can be very easy to make assumptions that others may share your views or experiences, especially in social settings at work or even online on social media. This division can quickly create dysfunction and may create unnecessary stress during an already uncertain time.
Understanding that public opinion can vary, here are five things you can do to help navigate social interactions in a respectful and mindful way.
1. Anticipate differences and empathize:
Even if someone isn’t facing a hardship or health issue, they may know someone directly affected by the virus. On the other side, if you’ve had personal experiences with the virus, understand that others may not have and that indifference is a common occurrence. When something doesn’t affect you directly, it can be easy to dismiss or downplay the idea. Try to understand that each person has feelings and emotions surrounding COVID-19 and anticipate that others will have different views than you, wherever you stand.
2. Walk a mile in their shoes:
If you disagree with the views or actions of a family member, coworker, or friend, try to view the situation from their point of view, instead of dismissing their thoughts or feelings. Ask questions with the pursuit of understanding, not to challenge the views you disagree with. You may still disagree on things, but in doing this, you prioritize the other person and your relationship.
3. Avoid politics:
Politics is often a divisive topic outside of a pandemic. It can be easy to make assumptions about how someone feels about the pandemic based on their political beliefs. Leave politics out of it. While people may have a political party they identify most with, it’s very possible to agree with opposing political party members and policies on specific issues.
4. Maintain boundaries:
Some people may feel very comfortable and confident in speaking publicly about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences surrounding the Coronavirus. Some may not be, and that’s completely okay. Whether it’s between family members, friends, or coworkers, if you feel uncomfortable talking about the virus or wish that the subject would not be talked about, politely change the subject or ask that it not be discussed. Redirecting the conversation can help ease tension if the topic causes dysfunction. In most circumstances, others will respect your boundaries when you speak to them directly and respectfully.
5. Focus on connection:
The Coronavirus pandemic has greatly affected our lives and can easily take over a conversation. While talking about the Coronavirus is sometimes inevitable, don’t focus on social issues. Instead, find ways to engage and connect. Learn more about one another, person to person. Talk about your favorite hobbies, movies, books, or share a funny story! Maybe you have a new hobby you’ve been doing with extra time at home, talk about it! It is a difficult time, and staying connected is more important now than ever before.
The way we socialize has changed. Don’t let social distancing and the use of masks keep you from connecting with the people in your life. It’s okay to have differences, it’s often our differences that allows for growth and learning.
Click here to learn more about Aurora’s COVID-19 safety measures.
Your mental health matters. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, don’t delay seeking help. Call us 24/7 for a free, confidential assessment 877.870.7012.