The uncertainty surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic is causing disruptions in family and work life. The virus has forced us to change daily routines leading to increased family stress. Many people are faced with financial strain and lack of resources. While all of these changes can add stress and tension to family interactions, family members also can grow closer to each
other and become more resilient and resourceful.
One way to manage your families stress is to communicate. Family members grow closer if they talk to each other about their personal experiences with the stress of the coronavirus and its impact on their lives. Sharing one’s own feelings and views and listening to others promotes better understanding.
- Set a time each day to talk about your day and about thoughts or feelings related to COVID-19.
- Talk with family at the end of the day about something that was fun or that you learned new that day.
- Come up with a plan together for what you will do tomorrow as a family. You can plan small things, such as meals, or fun activities, with everyone sharing their input and making a family decision together.
- If the health and safety of people are not at stake, then put off major decisions and difficult conversations that are not necessary to manage the current crisis. It is best to avoid or delay conflict right now.
- In the context of parenting, connecting with your kids before correcting them is really important.
- If you get angry, or someone gets upset, find some personal space and take some time to cool down. Put things in perspective and keep in mind that this is a very challenging time for all.
- People might need some private time to be by themselves. If the kids share a room, you can schedule who gets to be in the room at what time. If there is a balcony or yard, you can send the kids out for some time or spend time there yourself.
- Be the first to offer comfort or to tell someone “it’s ok.”
By: Brenda Langdon
