If you woke up this morning, unsure of what you can do to help the world through this time of uncertainty, you are not alone.
The world is in panic as the global death toll and unemployment claims continue to rise, but there is hope as multiple countries are working hard on developing potential vaccines and treatment methods, and more governments are putting stringent prevention measures in place to slow the rate of spread.
As the world awaits confirmation of a suitable treatment for coronavirus, try focusing on doing your part by staying positive, being productive and being helpful.
Here’s what you can do to help alleviate COVID-19 distress:
1) Don’t panic
South Africa’s official coronavirus news portal assures us that there is no need to panic. “82% of COVID-29 cases are mild: patients only experience a slight fever, fatigue and cough. Only 6% of patients need intensive care,” the site states. There have also been no reported deaths related to coronavirus in South Africa to date. Stay updated on COVID-19 by visiting https://sacoronavirus.co.za/ and joining the national WhatsApp support group on 0600-123456.
2) Educate yourself on how to stop spreading the virus
The World Health Organisation published this one-minute video on how coronavirus is spread and how to protect yourself:
Also, read up on Myths and Facts about COVID-19.
3) Buy gift vouchers & support local businesses
Since many businesses have paused operation and are unable to work from home, one way to contribute is by buying gift vouchers for services such as personal training sessions, restaurant vouchers, beauty treatments and outdoor activities to be redeemed at a later date.
All-women design team, Studio H, has made their contribution by shining a light on fierce local food stores across the country, where you can order groceries and takeaways. Read the full list, here.
4) Offer your services or donate care packs to those in need
Many elderly or immuno-compromised people will struggle to get access to groceries and daily necessities without a high risk of exposure to the coronavirus. Offer to help where you can, by ordering groceries online for an elderly neighbour or family member, taking them to the pharmacy or going on their behalf, or simply checking in on them regularly (via phone) for a chat and offering to be a contact person for them in time of need.
Alternatively (or additionally), you can also donate to worthy causes. Since 2009, FoodForwardSA has championed the distribution of groceries and toiletries with the vision of realising a South Africa without hunger. Amid the global state of emergency, the organisation’s search for resources continues. Click on this link to make a donation. There are many other organisations, so choose a reputable one that you connect with.
5) Stop spreading fake news
There is a deluge of news and media items being shared across the internet and via personal messaging channels. Before hitting that forward or share button, check the source and make sure that it’s reliable. Many items are designed to incite fear and create unnecessary panic, which serves no one. Stick to only sharing information from credible sources, with facts.
6) Share helpful tips & offer emotional support
We are being bombarded by large volumes of negative information at the moment, which can be very overwhelming, especially those already prone to anxiety. Stay informed, but rather than dwelling on the negativity, focus on sharing the positive news items to distract from the negative, and make sure to check in regularly with loved ones to offer them emotional support, and build on your connections.
Help us spread the word for those in need by sharing this blog post. You can also add to the list by reaching out to us via social media:
