Great leadership is vital, particularly now. Think about effective and empathetic leaders at your workplace and how grateful you are to have them. And if you are that leader, then managing the department of one is job one.
Here’s an interesting phenomenon: consider those family, friends, and co-workers who are considered by many to be leaders but do not have the formal title or designation of “leader.” Who falls into this category?
Those believed to be in the know
Those believed to be forthright
Those who can be counted on in times of need
So…when knowledgable, trustworthy, and caring: YOU
Today’s workplace is all about change and the new realities facing those who lead. In times of crisis, leaders who can respond strategically AND with a healthy dose of EQ are prized, even invaluable.
Below you’ll find a few summary points and commentary from an article published by the American Psychological Association entitled, “Seven crucial research findings that can help people deal with COVID-19” (Weir, K., 2020). The author’s comments are related to research studies of varied crises over the years. Contact me for specific reference items or follow the link to access the article: https://www.apa.org/news/apa/2020/03/covid-19-research-findings
Summary points and my observations:
- Media exposure, as you have heard, should be taken in manageable doses. Also, social media may create more fear and anxiety than traditional media. Relatedly, people value honest and accurate information, even when it may be worrisome.
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- My take: Trust the CDC
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- Excessive media of all kinds can pose mental health concerns. Researchers investigated events such as the Ebola crisis and the Boston Marathon bombings and found that those who had excessive exposure, in some cases, may become more reactive in response to the current pandemic.
- Be proactive about stress management. One review found that people who experienced acute stress in the weeks after a traumatic event had more distress, pain, depression, and other negative outcomes. So, reduce stress daily by reaching out, moderate exercise, good sleep, and staying connected to people who make you feel good – keep it simple but do it often!
- Quarantines and social isolation may increase the odds of negative outcomes. Outcomes are related to many variables- the length of the quarantine, the personality of the individual, the support network in place, etc.
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- My take: We have a better chance of reducing risk if we are proactive daily – self-care is vital! Reach out to friends and religious and/or spiritual touchstones. Don’t think too much about it….just take the actions and continue to make daily healthy connections with people whom you trust. If there are children in the picture? Open communication that is appropriate for their age grouping is crucial. Search for web-based educational tips, suggestions, and resources that are trustworthy and above all…take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
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Stay safe, stay well, and stay in touch,
Joe Lemmon, Ph.D. & Staff