Coronavirus, or COVID-19, continues to wreak havoc on human lives, our work force and financial markets. To save lives and prevent community spread of the virus, the governor of New York State Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency effective as of March 22, 2020 at 8 p.m., as the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus surge. Schools are closed, gatherings more than 10 people are prohibited, and only businesses deemed essential are permitted to operate leaving many people out of work unexpectedly. The fear of the unknown and the rate by which the virus spreads continue to be alarming. As one might expect, anxiety about our own health, the well-being of our loved ones, and the state of
our finances is on the rise.
In this blog, I will describe practical things we can do to help protects ourselves and try to help our neighbors.
Cooperate
First and foremost, cooperate!
I am urging everyone to cooperate with the recommendations and restrictions that have been put into place. Let us follow the leadership of our government officials and abide with the restrictions that have been set forth. This may be a short-term pain that will lead to a long-term gain. Let us practice social distancing, wash our hands frequently, cough into our elbow, avoid touching our faces, and avoid hoarding supplies.
Off the road and stay home
Let us get off the road as requested by our leadership. COVID 19 spreads via droplets and person to person contact. The decision by the authorities to restrict movement is ultimately to save lives and flatten the curve. Let us get off the road and stay inside. Please work from home if you can and only go out when absolutely necessary. At Upstate Psychiatry, we have converted all our non-emergent visits to telehealth. We still provide the same service while reducing aggregation and practice social distancing.
Volunteer
If you have the skills and ability to help, please do. Governor Cuomo is calling on retired physicians, nurses, respiratory therapist to come and help. This call is not limited to the medical
professionals. Each one of us should ask ourselves in what capacity can we help. Can we help deliver food, water, essential materials? What do we have in our houses that may be of use for
others? This is the time to volunteer our time, resources and finances.
Information
Be informed of your surroundings and be vigilant. I recommend getting regular updates from the government and listening to unbiased news stations. The CDC also constantly updates
their website which is a rich source of information.
Determine
We cannot underestimate the power of a strong will. Let us determine to defeat COVID19. If we look back and see how much we have overcome in the past; individually and as a nation, we know we can defeat this virus.
At Upstate Psychiatry, we are committed to your overall emotional, physical, and social well-being.
Upstate Professional Center 