Staying positive in the face of ‘COVID-19 fatigue’

As restrictions are lifted, we can't tune out important public health information, writes Vaughan fire Chief Deryn Rizzi

Yorkregion.com
July 20, 2020
Chief Deryn Rizzi

It certainly isn’t a typical summer, but we are adapting. We continue to settle into our routines while navigating the ever-evolving guidelines set out by the Government of Ontario and York Region Public Health in response to the pandemic.

The City of Vaughan continues to take a disciplined, responsible and measured approach to reopening the city. As some restrictions are lifted, other precautionary measures remain in place to protect everyone in the community from the further transmission of COVID-19.

Recently, York Region entered Stage 2 of the framework for reopening and more people are heading back to work. This is good news for businesses, employees and the Vaughan community.

The province has also increased the size limit of gatherings to a maximum of 10 people. Social “circles” or “bubbles” have been introduced, allowing us to hug and be close with a dedicated and exclusive group of up to 10 people, including those living with us and outside of our homes.

We may feel excited about these new opportunities and the possibilities around our “new normal,” but we must remember our fight is not over. It is just as important to remain vigilant today as it was when a state of emergency was declared in Vaughan on March 17.

Months of being inundated with news and information about COVID-19 and long days away from friends and extended family have taken their toll on all of us. Some of us are starting to feel what can be referred to as “COVID-19 fatigue.” This feeling might lead us to tune out important information in the media or relax how closely we follow public health guidance.

Staying positive and optimistic during a pandemic can be challenging, but it is critical to your mental well-being and immune system to remember to take care of yourself. Take a walk, listen to music, read something uplifting, try to cook a healthy meal and get some exercise. And remember that it is still essential to follow all public health directives. Let’s enjoy our social circles, while making health and safety the priority!

Adhering to the guidelines set out by York Region Public Health is how we can all say “thank you” to the health-care personnel, first responders and front-line workers who have dedicated countless hours to help bring us to where we are today.

COVID-19 has presented many challenges, but also opportunities to shine. Every day we are hearing stories about individuals and businesses that have risen to the challenge and found ways to help neighbours and the broader community through their innovations and generosity. It is this spirit of caring that will carry us through the current and future phases of recovery.

We can all learn from our experiences dealing with COVID-19 in our community, province and beyond. We know that when each of us does our part -- by following the guidelines set out by the province and public health -- we can help stop the spread of COVID-19. We must do this to keep ourselves, our loved ones and our community safe and healthy.