Dr. Eboni Green
January 11, 2022
Over the past year-and-a- half, we have become accustomed to canceled plans and increased work absences. The pandemic lingers and continues to present challenges for countries across the globe. However, if the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that we should be more understanding when people are facing illness. In the past, there may have been a tendency to assume that some individuals use their illnesses to avoid participating in everyday activities. However, perhaps we should be a bit more understanding? In fact, it would behoove us to liberally demonstrate compassion and understanding whenever an individual has an illness or injury, including family, friends, and co-workers impacted by the Covid-19 virus. The following are some ways you can demonstrate understanding in the face of illness:
It is likely that we are going to see a lot of cancellations and absences throughout the year, because of the pandemic. Many people around the world continue to be infected with coronavirus, and they need to self-isolate until they feel better. Understandably, many of us are feeling isolated and experiencing pandemic fatigue. While this can be very frustrating, it is simply the way that things are right now.
During the pandemic we have learned that some individuals suffer from Covid-19 and experience severe symptoms, whereas others have mild symptoms. For some, the symptoms are so mild that if it was not for the contagious nature of the virus, they would be able to get on with life. What this variation in symptoms demonstrates is that people really do experience illnesses and injuries in different ways. For example, if someone has the flu or is experiencing a cold, they may feel that they can continue with normal activities because the symptoms are very mild. Yet, because we experience illnesses differently some may need to rest for a few days before returning to normal. In either case, we need to respect individuals based on their symptoms and abilities.
We should also make sure that we are kind and caring to others when it comes to putting all areas of health first. For example, if someone feels that their hearing is impacted by a cold, earache, Covid-19, or the flu, encourage them to see an audiologist. In the meantime, you might also make an effort to learn more about communicating with an individual who is suffering from hearing loss. You may also choose to learn more about ways to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses by taking an online training course.
Considering the past two years that we have all experienced, it certainly makes sense to take stock of what has happened and to look at different ways that we can learn from the pandemic. One of the ways that everyone can glean from living through the pandemic is by being a bit more understanding when people are not feeling well. A bit of understanding can go a very long way to making this trying time a little less distressing.
