How can you help?

One of the most common questions I see floating around, after asking about all the specific info on the actual COVID-19 virus, is “How can I help?”. For those of us who are healthy, it makes sense that we have an urge to help. We see people suffering and we want to jump in and do what we can. Everyone’s capabilities for lending a hand are different, and just because you can’t help in what seems like a massive way, that doesn’t mean you can’t pitch in. Here’s a list, of big and small ways, that you can give what you can during this crazy and difficult time.

Help when you can, where you can. We can all get through this together.

• Call a friend or family member. Reach out and let someone know that you’re there for them and you’re thinking of them – especially if they’re living alone.
• Offer to run an errand. You might know someone who is higher risk or has more difficulty getting around. Maybe you know someone struggling to manage childcare and their work responsibilities. If you can, offer to grab some groceries or make a run to the pharmacy for them.
• Same goes for dog walking. This is even more fun than the errand running!
• Schedule a virtual happy hour, chat, game night, etc. Stay connected. It helps both you and the person you’re “meeting” up with.
• Respect boundaries. We’re all dealing with a lot. If someone in your life needs space for a little while, give it to them.
• Volunteer in your community. Whether you’re a healthcare professional (obviously much needed!) or not, you may have a skill that could be helpful during this time. Research what opportunities are available in your state and/or city.

• Donate. Whether it’s supplies or money, pick a person, a group, or a cause and give what you can. There’s a crazy number of people unemployed right now, and there’s no clear end date. That’s terrifying.
• Send memes. Yes, seriously. Make someone laugh. We don’t have a lot going on right now, and as a result, the simple things end up being the best part of someone’s day.
• Stay informed. Know what the best practices are (they are evolving!) so you can keep yourself and others safe.

• Take care of yourself. One of the best ways to help others is to first help yourself. If you aren’t doing well mentally or physically, you can’t help your family or your community. Do what you need to get through this difficult time.
• Call out people in your life who aren’t taking precautions. This isn’t the time for “keeping the peace”. It’s not a political conversation at the Thanksgiving table, it’s life or death. Your words may not make a difference, but try. You could save a life.
• Support businesses supporting us. Spend your money in places that are helping essential workers or those who have been impacted by the pandemic.
• STAY HOME. Stop the spread. It’s been said over and over again, but here it is one more time.