Parish Nurse – April Newsletter

This if the newsletter that was submitted by Kathy for the April Newsletter:

Happy Easter.  Christ is risen!  He is risen indeed!

This month I planned to focus on mental health.  It has been quite a few months since I did that.   I decided to talk about anxiety and more specifically, anxiety related to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

 Lack of or changing information can be scary.  It is March 12th (the due date) as I write this letter.  By the time you receive the newsletter what we know about the virus will have changed, but this information on dealing with anxiety will remain helpful.  You can use it as the country continues to face the COVID-19, but also as you face other health threats and any unfamiliar situation.

I would first like to remind you what God says to us in the Bible.  “Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6).  Maybe your request is to protect you, your family, and Good Shepherd from the coronavirus.  Maybe your request is for our local, state, and national leaders to make good decisions that will be of benefit to the people.  Maybe your request is for peace of mind when things are happening that are outside of your control.  Remember God is in control, so keep the line of communication open with Him.  “Therefore humble yourselves under God’s powerful hand so that he may lift you up at the appointed time.  Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7).  God’s reassuring words are important to recall whether you are facing COVID-19, cancer, or surgery, deciding to make a major purchase or changing jobs.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has information on taking care of your emotional health and coping during the COVID-19.  Here are some of their recommendations you can do to support yourself

  • Avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of COVID-19.
  • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs.
  • Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear about the crisis and see images repeatedly. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to return to your normal life.
  • Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships.
  • Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking.

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The CDC reminds parents that children react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children.   Be truthful as you answer children’s questions.  Your explanations should be age appropriate.  Stay focused on what they are interested in knowing.  For example, if kids ask about school closings, address their questions. But if the topic doesn’t come up, there’s no need to raise it unless it happens.  KidsHealth.org and healtier.standfordchldren.org have many good suggestions on talking with children.

I pray that your anxiety is minimal, but high enough that you wash your hands frequently, cough into a tissue or upper arm (not your hand), avoid touching your face, and stay home if you are ill.

Keep praying and give thanks,

Kathy Lee, RN

Added in April – the CDC now recommends wearing cloth face masks when leaving home to slow the spread of the virus.