Tips From IDA

BE SAFE: Of course, everyone knows to stay home as much as you can, keep at least a 6 ft distance from others, wash your hands, don’t touch your face, etc. We would like to add changing your clothes and putting the worn clothes in the washer or a separate laundry basket, blowing your nose and washing your face (taking a shower would be even better).  Most viruses start their growth in the nose and Covid-19 is said to linger on clothing. 

DELIVERIES AND HELP: Utilize delivery services from grocery stores, drug stores and companies such as instacart and Grubhub. Nextdoor can also be a great resource; this is a forum where neighbors communicate online. Right now, many neighbors are offering to go to the store for the elderly or those who are immune compromised. Many stores are also offering shopping hours for seniors and those who are vulnerable. Check with your stores for more information.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS: Connect with people on social media, call friends and family, play games with loved ones online, use Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, etc to have dinner with someone! Be sure to join us at the Invisible Disabilities Community! We have over 7,500 members on a platform called Inspire, which has over 1.5 millions members! Don’t get disconnected.  

SNUGGLE YOUR PETS! Pets bring love, joy and happiness to our lives! They are counting on us to be there for them and love us for doing so! 

KEEP YOUR MIND ACTIVE: Listen to music, audio books, find a craft to do, try mindfulness meditation, enjoy YouTube videos that make you laugh and watch funny or uplifting movies or TV shows.

GET OUT OF THE HOUSE: Take a walk (if you are able) or just sit outside to admire nature and give your brain some space. 

DEPRESSED OR IN DANGER: If you feel you or someone else is in danger or you are having a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately. If you need someone to talk to, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. See below or visit our Programs 4 People page for more crisis and help resources.