By: Janice Lawrence Malone, MSN, RN, MBA

The onset of the Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, has caused pandemonium in the lives of individuals on almost every continent. Suddenly for some, and gradually for others, their normal routines, whether working away from home, going to school, congregating at the pool or beach, or going to places of worship, have drastically changed. Life now revolves around physical distancing of quarantines, total or partial lockdowns, curfews, long lines in supermarkets, and the absence of laughter, and playful competition of children on school campuses.

While some wish that they could have a crystal ball to see the future as to when life will return to some type of normalcy, others express that COVID-19 signifies that the end of the world is near. However, many look back to history and realize the over 100 years ago, the Spanish flu of 1918  (Lessons from COVID-19–BBC) created much global havoc and similarly required physical distancing, closure of  businesses and schools, and the  banning of public events such as parades (Spanish Flu Social Distancing–MSN).

The Spanish flu of 1918 caused much devastation, and loss of life. However out of this devastation, individuals recognized the importance of general hygiene and hand-washing (Spanish Flu Epidemic ABC News ).  In our time, as we grapple with similar challenges such as the loss of life, illness of our relatives and friends, isolation from our family members, unemployment, and other socio-economic adjustments caused by COVID-19, we, too, could benefit from a few lessons of physical distancing:

1. Hygiene is important

Cough hygiene (covering your cough and sneezes), proper hand-washing, and general body hygiene should become a permanent part of our daily practices, not just during this pandemic.

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2. Separate the essential from the non-essential

Certain items such as owning several pairs of sneakers in various colors may not be essential; however, building or rebuilding your emergency savings should be considered essential as savings could help individuals and families as they maneuver difficult times.

3. Participate in family activities

Whether visiting parents, adult children, siblings, or members of extended families, individuals could schedule and participate in family activities such as family parties, dinners, or beach picnics. Too often elderly or ill relatives are left on their own. While some challenges exist in cases where family members live in different islands, various parts of the country, or in different countries, technology such as Skype, Facetime or WhatsApp allows for individuals in different physical locations to participate in virtual events.

4. Ask for help

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COVID-19 has ushered in much uncertainty and socioeconomic difficulties for many. Many find that they are unable to pay their bills such as rent, loans, or credit card bills. Speak with your landlord and financial institutions. Many financial institutions are offering temporary relief to their customers.

Talk with trusted family members or close friends who might be able to offer you some financial assistance until your situation improves. You may also apply for any government assistance for which you are eligible.

If the stress associated with this pandemic is affecting your mental health, please speak with trusted family members, close friends, or schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider or a mental health therapist.

5. Include exercise and relaxing activities in your daily routine

Exercising regularly, whether your can only fit in a few minutes daily, could benefit individuals of all age groups. Whether walking in safe areas or exercising at home, parents and children could participate in some sort of exercise. Additionally, parents could encourage jump-rope activities for their pre-teen children. Individuals with health conditions should participate in exercise activities that are approved by their healthcare providers.

Finally, participating in healthy, relaxing activities could offer many benefits. Identify activities that are relaxing to you and incorporate these activities into your daily routine.

While we may not have a crystal ball that will tell us when life will return to normal, we, like the people of 1918 will endeavor. Yes, like those of 1918, many in our time will have suffered health and socioeconomic challenges and will have lost some loved ones during this pandemic. But, the pandemic will eventually end. We will realize a new normal. Children will once again laugh, run, play, and learn in school. Businesses will re-open.  The beaches will re-open. And we will once again have parades, festivals, food fairs, and carnivals.