covid19

In listening to the stories of refugees—harrowing experiences of escape, family separation, poverty, exposure to war-related atrocities, and immeasurable cultural bereavement seem to be common occurrences. And today refugees face a threat like never before—one that could prove to be more devastating than the political violence forcing them to flee their homelands.

A few weeks ago I was driving home with my three teenage sons--the oldest being 14 and a set of 13-year-old twin boys--from a local edible plant nursery that has stayed open during this COVID-19 crisis. We had gone by to pick up some herb and vegetable plants for the small garden we recently started in the back of our condo. On the way home, one of my boys said, "You know, the thing that I hate most about this pandemic is that I can't hang out with my friends." For many teens, socializing with their friends is a large part of their daily lived experience. From school to sports and other act

In 2001, I was working with families who had a child with cancer in Seattle, WA. It was an emotionally demanding job in which I walked through some very dark times with these families. One such time was during the crisis of September 11.

What are the health disparities associated with COVID-19?

The introduction of the novel coronavirus (known as COVID-19) has brought with it changes to nearly every aspect of life. Schools are closed, many are working from home, and stress levels are elevated. Not only has COVID-19 posed a risk to physical health, but it has taken a toll on moods, work productivity, and social relationships. Many people feel more fatigued, overwhelmed, and anxious than ever before. Finding ways to cope with these feelings is an important aspect of keeping your body healthy during these uncertain times.

While COVID-19 victims reflect a wide swath of Americans irrespective of social position, the most vulnerable are marginalized populations, who are most inclined to encounter health disparities. So what appears as a health crisis for some is also a social justice question for society, as the toll of the disease unfolds, disproportionally impacting historically underserved populations.

Sometimes you can't see the road ahead but as you keep going, it gets clearer. Stay the course as the fog of life dissipates. -Sanjo Jendayi

Since the COVID-19 crisis began, Systems, Families, & Couples PhD program graduate Danna Carter has been thinking about how best to contribute to the world in meaningful ways during this difficult time.

We've all seen the announcements that older adults, especially those with underlying health conditions, are hit hardest by the coronavirus and the illness it causes. Communities and businesses are stepping up to help keep older adults safe by minimizing their exposure to possible COVID-19 carriers. For example, many grocery stores now have special hours set aside earlier in the day for only those 65 and older to shop.

The other day a colleague asked me how I was doing and my response was: "Great. Um, pretty good. I mean, just okay, I guess." We both laughed heartily at my quickly changing state of mind, but also acknowledged its validity. I don't know about you, but the last few weeks have left me perplexed at my own responses to COVID-19. One moment I'm bored from not being able to leave my house and then next I'm overwhelmed by the state of the world and an uncertain future.