 |
| Even if you are staying home to practice social distancing, you can go outside; take a walk, get some fresh air and exercise, and enjoy nature. |
“We must all be part of this battle,” Inslee said in announcing expanded limits on social gatherings. “For the next several weeks, normal is not in our game plan.”
Here are resources and tips addressing some common concerns about coping with the new world in which we find ourselves.
Social distancing and self-quarantine – what’s the difference?
Social distancing means taking extra measures to maintain distance – at least 6 feet -- between yourself and other people to reduce your risk of being exposed to COVID-19.
- Stay away from others — literally.
- Forget hugs and handshakes. Substitute a wave or elbow bump.
- Work at home, if you possibly can.
- Stay at home, except for essential outings such as buying groceries.
- Limit close interactions with friends and coworkers (6 feet distance)
- Avoid social gatherings of 10 people or more.
For details, see:
Social distancing and quarantine; What you need to know
 |
| Statewide shut-down of gatherings over 50 were announced on March 16. |
How to talk to children
With schools closed and parents teleworking, kids are at home. They may be especially confused and frightened about what’s going on. Here are resources that can help:
Talking to kids about COVID-19
Showing up for our kids during an outbreak
Humans being social creatures, it’s normal that we would experience some anxiety and sadness at being kept apart from our friends, coworkers and even family. As we stick close to home and keep our distance, here are some tips to reduce feelings of isolation:
- Maintain a regular schedule.
- Connect with others virtually; text, call, or use video platforms like Facetime.
- Stay active – stream exercise available online or get outside to bike, walk, or garden.
- Stay informed, but avoid unreliable sources of information.
 |
| Missing the gym or your exercise class? Find online exercise you can stream at home to stay active. |
We want social distancing, not social isolation
Coming together to stay apart
Coping with stress
A disease pandemic, like any disaster or emergency, can cause fear, anxiety, and overwhelming waves of emotion. Taking steps to cope with the stress will keep you, your loved ones and your community stronger as we pull together to fight this disease. Here are some resources to help:
Manage anxiety and stress
Coping with stress during an infectious disease outbreak
State Employee Assistance Program
Supporting our communities
No doubt about it; the measures and sacrifices we are being asked to take are tremendously disruptive to our lives. Decisions in Washington are being guided by the best available science and public health
 |
| Stay in contact with family and friends by phone, text or video-chat. |
We are not helpless; we can do plenty to support each other and our communities. Practice empathy and compassion for your family, friends and neighbors. We are all in this boat together, pulling in unison.
Be especially supportive of those at high-risk of getting the disease – age 60 or above, medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes, pregnant women. And remember that people in your community may lose their livelihoods because of business closures.
As we see images of empty store shelves, help your neighbors by only buying what you need. Overstocking and hoarding will not fight this disease. Leave some for your neighbor.
In summary: As social distancing becomes the norm, schools and businesses close, and we hunker down at home, the Insider offers more tips and resources that can help us get through this individually and together.
