409 Coping with Pandemics/ COVID-19

Research by Polizzi, Craig, Lynn, Steven Jay & Perry, Andrew. (2020)

Written by Robin N. Fatovic B.S.

Do you notice that you or the people around you are having difficulty coping during COVID-19?

Psychologist Steven Jay Lynn and doctoral students reviewed research done on prior mass crises to assess which coping interventions were effective. By studying events such as 9/11, natural disasters, and other pandemics, the researchers identified that following the “3 C’s” can improve resiliency.

The first “C” stands for “Control.”If we create short and long-term goals, plan activities, maintain a sleep schedule, limit media exposure, and prepare post-pandemic plans, we gain Control.

The second “C” “Coherence,”is the desire to find meaning. Think about what is important to you in life and focus on what activities you can participate in that are meaningful and fulfill your values.

The third “C” “Connectedness,”suggests that social support is helpful for coping. Contacting people by phone, video chat, or social media can reduce anxiety and sadness. Meditation can improve compassion toward yourself and others, which can make you feel closer to others even when you are physically apart.

Cultivate resilience. Take goal-directed actions. Find meaning. Reach out to others. Remember the 3 Cs strategies:-Control, Coherence, and Connectedness.

Reference:

Polizzi, C., Lynn, S.J., Perry, A. (2020). Stress and Coping in the Time of COVID-19: Pathways to Resilience and Recovery. Clinical Neuropsychiatry, 17 (2), 59-62. https://doi.org/10.36131/ CN20200204