Stay Connected With Your Community
Just like its important to stay connected with your family and friends during this time, it is important to stay connected within your community. So many services are now offered virtually, for example, speaking with a doctor or pharmacist, ordering food online, and virtual workout classes. Finding ways to safely support the local community can be huge. Whether that means ordering from local restaurants, finding programs that are giving back, or keeping your fellow community members safe by following health guidelines.
Important note: Before starting, remember that each community has their own safety guidelines in place and that you should adhere to those guidelines. At the end of the day, the most important thing to do is keep your community safe!
Virtual Health Services
One challenge many people are facing now is how to safely keep up your routines and your health. Simple acts like visiting a clinic or pharmacy are now difficult. Luckily, many companies have worked out virtual solutions! A few of these companies include CVS, Walgreens, and Virtuwell. Each one is offering virtual “visits” to help keep you healthy while practicing social distancing. You can enter your symptoms online or talk with a doctor who can then make a diagnosis and, if needed, prescribe medication. These virtual appointments make it so easy to maintain your health while staying home and keeping your community safe! Not to mention, many pharmacies now offer delivery so you can have your prescriptions sent right to your mailbox.
There are also several online mental healthcare providers as well. From TalkSpace to BetterHelp, online therapy is becoming more and more accessible. We all know how important it is to keep our mental health strong, especially during uncertain times. Online therapy is a great way to get the help you need from the comfort and safety of your own home. So whether you just need someone to talk to or are looking for a psychiatrist for medication options, there is an online service to help! Checkout a list of providers here.
Online Classes and Community
Another challenge many of us are facing is staying connected with our local community. It can be hard to feel like an active member and supporter of your community with so many things closed down. So how can you stay active in your community and support local? One great option is by joining online classes. Many gyms are offering online workout classes or putting together workouts for you to do at home. Other businesses are offering classes and workshops virtually as well. A great place to find these is on Facebook. You can easily see what is being offered in your community and how you can get involved. Not only does joining these virtual classes give you something to do, but it also supports the local businesses in your community.
Another easy way to support your community is to order from local restaurants. Many restaurants are offering delivery and takeout during this time. So instead of ordering from the big chain restaurant, opt for a local business! Now is a great time to try out some of the smaller local restaurants! Supporting local shops can be a big help to your fellow community members and can help you feel more supportive and connected. In many states restaurants are starting to open for limited services. Before heading out to eat, be sure to read up on the safety guidelines put in place by the state and by the restaurant!
Staying Safe in Public
Of course we are all just itching to get outside, especially in the Midwest where a long-awaited summer has arrived! And you definitely should get out! Getting fresh air and exercise can provide a major boost to your mood and mental health. The important thing to remember is that we all have a responsibility to keep our communities safe. So before you head out, plan accordingly so you can follow the safety guidelines in your neighborhood.
I know we have all heard it a thousand times, but be sure to wear a mask, keep your distance from others, and wash your hands often. Something I have found helpful is to find new areas in my neighborhood that are less popular and have fewer people around! Going on hikes, bike rides, or even just a walk around the block can really help you feel more connected to your community.
While we are all feeling and seeing the impacts of the virus on our communities, it is important to try our best to stay healthy and connected. There are plenty of ways that you can get involved with your community and help support local. Do some research, find out what resources are being offered near you, and enjoy yourself!