Have your neighbor’s back in the pandemic

Though Leisure World Seal Beach has remained largely COVID-free, there’s a good chance many residents know someone who was affected by the virus. Social distancing measures have prevented people from helping sick friends and family, but experts say people need to be more supportive during the pandemic.

“If you know someone who has become ill with COVID-19, do not to judge or blame them,” said Dr. Trey Dobson, chief medical officer at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. “COVID-19 is truly something that can happen to most anyone, even those following all reasonably preventative measures.”

According to Dobson, a supportive culture encourages, motivates and inspires others to follow health recommendations, which benefits the community as a whole. “A supportive culture is one that follows the principal ‘I have your back, and you have mine,’” he explains. “Communities that can maintain a supportive culture will have low numbers of COVID-19 cases and few outbreaks while working to establish widespread vaccination.”

Showing support can also help to relieve stress. Whether or not a person has been ill, there’s often other factors that have increased stress during the pandemic, whether it’s financial, job-related or from being a caretaker for other family members. A high level of stress can lead to depression, anxiety, a lowered immune system and an increase in cognitive errors. The Minnesota Department of Health found that being supportive of others not only helps that person, but it also increases the supporter’s sense of purpose and value, improving his or her own well-being.

“There is extensive evidence that giving to someone else makes people feel good,” said Dr. David Fryburg, a physician and co-founder of Envision Kindness. “That feeling, colloquially labeled the ‘helper’s high,’ feels good because it activates reward systems in the brain. Caring about others is a potent stress reliever likely through creating positive connection.”

Spreading kindness in your family and community can help manage depression and stress.