How Young People Can Tackle COVID-19 Gloom
The importance of finding strength and staying connected.
For young people, the hope and optimism of a new decade hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. Those in their GCSE year, A Level year, or final year of University have faced the reality of an experience cut short. The cancellation of exams and the prospect of no chance to celebrate their hard work are soul destroying after such a long period of stress, late nights, early mornings and intense revision. Unfortunately, this is the reality gifted to us by COVID-19 and the essential policy of social distancing and self-isolation.
It may seem impossible to look on the bright after studying has been abruptly swept away like a rug from under our feet. For students, our work is our life. We live and breathe it and the fact that we have temporarily lost it is incredibly stressful. Returning home from university, especially earlier than expected, is disorientating and leaves us feeling lost. But this very feeling is what should motivate us to stay strong.
Our generation is one of the most innovative, creative and strong-willed of any. We constantly adapt to new environments and we don’t submit in the face of adversity. We’ve had the power to shape governments, to promote acceptance and equality, and to combat climate change; so why would we crumble in the face of a global pandemic? Our voices are strong and we can do much to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Use social media to share the NHS guidelines and promote staying at home. Encouraging social distancing is vital to slowing down the progress of the virus. Contact friends and family to make sure nobody feels alone in their isolation, support our key workers, offer to assist the elderly with delivering their shopping or walking their dog. In times of crisis we work best as a team, as a community.
Having time to manage your own sadness and loneliness is also essential. Of course, it isn’t easy to stop feeling upset about this year of University being cut short or your A Level exams being cancelled. It’s awful and we don’t deserve it. So take some time to focus on yourself and work out your priorities.
Continue any necessary studying and establish a routine to gain some stability and certainty. Practice self-care, read a book, write down how you’re feeling, communicate with others and exchange suggestions of podcasts or films or games. Technology is our saviour during this time so make use of it and remind yourself that your community is still going strong despite the lack of physical contact.
Most importantly, find avenues for reassurance and relaxation. Panic never got us anywhere, the uncertainty will eventually pass. Remember, you are not alone.
Here are some things you could get involved with to stay connected with LUU and other Leeds students:
Share a summary of your #quaroutine with @luuadvice on Twitter!
Leeds University Union has created a Facebook page to share positivity and stay connected with the student body during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find it here.
To keep everyone’s spirits up, the Health & Wellbeing team will be sending out a weekly newsletter. As well as blogs, mini podcasts and other online resources, we’ll be converting some of our workshops to online content. Sign up here if you are interested!
For updated coronavirus information and guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care, visit this page.
For updated information regarding the University of Leeds’ response to the COVID-19 situation, visit https://coronavirus.leeds.ac.uk
