As the pandemic continues, Iowans may feel as if the isolation and loneliness will never end. However, there are ways to make these challenging times feel as “normal” as possible and to stay connected with others while social distancing.

Iowa State University Extension, in collaboration with COVID Recovery Iowa, will begin offering the online program, “Loneliness and Isolation in a Pandemic,” to provide education about how to manage and process these feelings.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a great deal of uncertainty about the future and a sense of loneliness and isolation. It is important as we navigate this time that we understand how we are feeling and recognize we have options,” says Diane Eischeid, a crisis and outreach counselor with COVID Recovery Iowa and ISU Extension.

Social distancing

“Social belonging is so important. We know we’re stronger together, and there are a range of creative ways we can stay connected even when we’re apart. We will offer tips for dealing with feelings of loneliness and staying connected while social distancing and staying safe,” Eischeid says.

ISU Extension will offer “Loneliness and Isolation in a Pandemic” during lunch hours. Each program will last for approximately one hour. Dates and times follow:

• Nov. 19 at noon. Register online for this session.
• Dec. 10 at noon. Register online for this session.

Eischeid is leading the program along with counselor Andrea Gustafson. This program is being offered at no cost to all those in the community interested in learning about this topic.

Participants will receive a unique URL prior to the program to access the Zoom program. For more information, contact Gustafson at [email protected] or Eischeid at [email protected].

Other resources

The Iowa Concern hotline, offered by ISU Extension, provides confidential access to stress counselors and an attorney for legal education, as well as information and referral services for a wide variety of topics. With a toll-free phone number, live chat capabilities and a website, Iowa Concern services are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week, at no charge.

To reach Iowa Concern, call 800-447-1985; language interpretation services are available. Or visit extension.iastate.edu/iowaconcern to talk with a stress counselor one on one in a secure environment, or email with an expert regarding legal, finance, stress, or crisis and disaster.

Another resource, COVID Recovery Iowa offers a variety of services to anyone affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Virtual counselors provide counseling, activities, referral information and help finding resources for any Iowan seeking personal support. Iowans of all ages may join groups online for activities and learn creative strategies for coping with the effects of the pandemic.

COVID Recovery Iowa will announce upcoming programs on the website and via all social media to help Iowans build coping skills, resilience and emotional support. To request support, go to COVIDrecoveryiowa.org.

Source: ISU, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.