It is now more important than ever to stay at home. Yes, we know it sounds amazing in theory to not have to do anything, and for some it may have been a dream come true. But, the reality of the situation is that staying at home may not be as fun as you once thought, especially when you are being asked to and it is not your own decision. If you are stuck for things to do, then check out our post on what to do at home during these times. As An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said, “we will come together as a nation, by standing apart”.
Avoid letting your parents or the elderly you are living with go to the shops, they are at a higher risk and supermarkets can be a breeding ground for the virus if you are not careful. But everyone needs to go to the shop as everyone has to eat, so if you have the ability to go to the shop make sure you insist yourself or those less at risk to the virus do the shopping. It is a small gesture, but it might save your loved ones from getting very sick.
Over these coming weeks our time on social media and screens will no doubt increase, and therefore our potential exposure to negative news feeds and stories will do so as well. As many of you may have already seen the rise in fake news and ‘scare-mongering’ in light of recent events, it can be very easy to become anxious if you take these messages seriously. As well as that, your house, your town, your city, your country, and the World need positivity to shine. There has been videos emerging from Italy and Spain of those on lockdown singing, dancing and playing music from their balconies in an effort to feel normal for a moment. Make sure to play your part, remain positive and we will persevere.
As mentioned above, the amount of false information about army patrolling towns and a red level lockdown are simply untrue, however, they made many people anxious and that is not what we need right now. As Leo Varadkar has said, along with Simon Harris and many other Government representatives and HSE medical team members – listen to the experts. That includes the HSE, WHO (World Health Organisation), trusted national journalists and broadcasters and your GP. The advice and information they communicate is coming from the leading minds in this field. It is true, not all heroes wear capes, a lot of them wear scrubs!
It is now more important than ever to look after those who need it most, that is those who live alone, who are more vulnerable to the virus and therefore must stay away from people, and also, those who may not have the ability to go to the shops due to other reasons. In times of crisis it is paramount that we look out for the less able and vulnerable. The little gesture of getting them some bits in the shop, and checking in on them (from a safe distance) goes along way for the wellbeing of those isolated.
There you have it, some easy tips which allow everyone to do their bit in the community and to help flatten the curve. Stay safe, wash your hands and make the most of it. #StandTogetherbyStandingApart