COVID-19 – Page 2 – MGH Center of Excellence for Psychosocial and Systemic Research

The Wisdom of a Greek Slave and a Roman Emperor: Borrowing from Stoic Philosophy to Make it Through a Pandemic.

Living through a pandemic has forced me to take a new look at coping, particularly since my life has been spared many of the things fate can throw at you: wars, loss of a career, severe illness. I was not really prepared mentally for living through a pandemic, but I have always looked at philosophy to help me live better – by reading and extracting interesting ideas that I can try out. Let me introduce you to a few practical points that I gleaned from Stoicism as a way of coping with our current pandemic…

Research Review: Stress and Self-Care During COVID-19

When we perceive a threat to our wellbeing, our bodies activate the acute stress response, also known as the “fight or flight” response. This is designed to give us a burst of strength and energy, and impacts systems in our bodies. For example:

Our heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing increase, to deliver oxygenated blood to our muscles…

Personal Observations of the Impact of COVID on an Individual and Community Level

Q: What have been some of your personal challenges during COVID-19?

A: Not being able to see loved ones has been very difficult. I haven’t been able to see my daughters. One is in Canada, the other one is homeless and using. I can’t put myself and my family here at risk. We need to keep safe. And then having to deal personally with working outside of the home, as a front-line worker, and essential staff. Trying to do everything possible to keep myself healthy, to take proper precautions. Wearing the mask, sanitizing, washing my hands…

Medical Care During COVID-19

Q. My level of concern about COVID-19 is so high I am afraid to go to a variety of doctors. What can you suggest for moderating this concern and being able to make it to the doctor? Can I take a supportive person with me?

A: If you feel comfortable that your condition can be managed well with telemedicine, this option can provide you…

Resource: COVID-19 Key Information

Should I be tested for COVID-19?
Testing is for people with symptoms of infection (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) AND travel to a place with known widespread infection OR close contact with someone with confirmed COVID-19. Close contact means being within 6 feet for a long period of time such as while living together, caring for, visiting or sharing a room…