Mount Pleasant Magazine Documenting Covid-19

109 www.CoronavirusMag.com | www.ReadMPM.com | www.ILoveMountPleasant.com feature On a personal level, a crisis presses the “reset” button in our lives, as we are forced to reprioritize our activities and choices. Things that were important to us diminish in significance when normalcy is stripped away. Most often, we begin to appreciate and long for our relationships with others. There are hidden gems to be discovered under the “shelter in place” order for us. Most of us are forced into a slower rhythm of life that allows us the irreplaceable gift of time with family. Sometimes family time can be stressful, especially when there are unresolved conflicts, but human beings are created for connection and there is opportunity here to invest in the most precious of our relationships. Both physical and emotional pain are markedly reduced by the power of human presence, particularly the presence of a known loved one. Humans do not thrive in isolation; this is why solitary confinement is one of the harshest of punishments, and part of the reason why the solution of physical distancing to halt the spread of a highly contagious disease may increase the deleterious mental health consequences of this pandemic. It is why we see photos of ICU nurses holding up iPads so that patients can experience the closest connection possible with loved ones as they either recover or die in physical isolation. Resilience, which is the ability to adapt well in the face of adversity, is best accomplished by remembering that we are not meant to weather hard times alone. People survived in pairs in concentration camps. Together, we can more honestly face and adjust to the changing realities that crises force upon us. It truly is through suffering that we learn compassion. TIPS TO PRIORITIZE RELATIONSHIPS AND CONNECTWITH OTHERS: A. Hug your loved ones. When it is possible to physically connect in loving ways, do it! A five-minute hug regulates our heightened physiology and reduces stress, as the breathing and heartbeat of the soother actually will come into sync with the one who is being soothed and held. Use the gift of time to play and laugh together. B. Practice the golden rule. If you are lonely during this time, reach out to someone and ask how they are doing. Focus on caring for others more than wondering why others might not be reaching out to you. Even with physical distancing, there are innumerable creative ways to connect—through letter writing, dropping off a meal, as well as FaceTime and other technology. C. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression or any other mental health challenge, give yourself health and w llness Thank you for your TRUST. Thank you for your CONFIDENCE. Thank you for VOTING. Thank you for voting us as one of the best hearing aid centers. Our staff is committed to giving our patients the best hearing care possible to improve one’s quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, call us today and find out why we were voted best Hearing Aid Providers! Holy City Hearing is here for you during this time of uncertainty. As small business owners with a passion for hearing health, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our patients and their families. We are currently seeing patients by appointment only, following all CDC guidelines. Even though COVID-19 has pushed our community into unknown territory, we will come out of this stronger than before. Mount Pleasant 311 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite #121 Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 843-388-4853 Holycityhearing.com Summerville 402 N Main St. Suite E Summerville, SC 29483 843-388-4853 HEARING Holy City ®