Who would have imagined at the beginning of 2020 that we would be working through the challenges of COVID-19, and maybe even be a patient afflicted with the virus? Every day brings new information and new decisions to be made on behalf of ourselves and those who depend on us.

Of course, our first priority is the safety of others and ourselves, but, in all honesty, do we know what that means entirely? Personally, I know that the fear of the unknown can be worse for many than the ailment itself. We are so concerned (and rightly so) with who will get the virus, how to treat them and how to manage the strain on our healthcare system, as well as its financial impact, that we may not yet have thought of how to help people manage the stress and fear that threatens to overtake them.

FACING THE UNKNOWN

Besides seeing patients, in my 25 years in optometry I have been through lawsuits, audits, meningitis, a cerebrospinal fluid leak, seven hurricanes and much more. Each event left me with one of two choices: 1) drown in the horror of the moment, or 2) look for a way to continue to live my mission of serving others.

I probably would never have voluntarily chosen any of those “battles,” yet each prepared me — and sometimes those around me — for the next one. I made it through because of faith, family and friends (all of you), and we will do it once again. Hopefully, by the time you read this, we will be looking back saying, “Wow, I am so glad that is over.” If not, then take heart in each other (even if by phone).

A KICK IN THE BUTT

Kick fear in the butt by moving forward, not just for yourself, but for all of those who count on you. Your courage will give others courage.

Some of the practical ways to move forward in a crisis are:

1. Talk to loved ones daily (not all of them each day but at least one, and especially the ones you live with). Ask what they are fearful of, then encourage them. Ask what they want to do with their life when this is over, talk about the good times and plan for more. Enjoy these moments because each is truly a gift. Take each other’s thoughts away from that which you cannot control.
2. Find out what you can do to help each patient who comes in your office today. They will remember for a lifetime how your words helped them face a challenge they encountered.
3. Learn something new. Remember that thing you have always wanted to do? Get it done, and then tell me about it. I look forward to hearing your stories.
4. Read stories of those who are helping others. So much good is happening all around us.
5. Prepare for your amazing future. Clean out a room, organize your processes, eliminate the clutter, stay busy. The last hurricane scare in my area was a long drawn out one, so I had to prepare and then sit and wait. Not liking the sit and wait part, my husband and I chose to build a new shelving system. Crazy? Yes, but when the hurricane was over, we had the shelving system we had wanted for years.

We cannot change every circumstance, however, we can change how we respond. Take advantage of every moment. Be smart, be vigilant and be prepared. And most of all, be courageous for your fellow human. OM

Email: april.jasper@pentavisionmedia.com

Twitter: @DrAprilJasper

Facebook: @OptometricManagement