How to Support Your Friend If They Contract the Coronavirus

COVID-19 has infected millions of people.

As much as all of us at Sweety High hope that you're all safe and healthy, there's always a chance that one of your friends has or will have COVID-19. We all know how to support our friends when they're dealing with breakups or bad days, but how do we help a friend who has coronavirus?

It's a brand new territory, and it can be challenging to support a friend without physically being with them. However, there are ways to help your friend while keeping yourself safe. Here are five ways you can support your friend if they test positive for COVID.

Stay in Contact with Them

Your friend will need to quarantine while they recover, so they will feel very isolated. One of the best ways to help your friend is to stay in contact with them. You can set up a Zoom call with all your friends, FaceTime them one-on-one, text daily check-ins or send them hilarious memes. It's essential to stay in touch with them and remind them that they're not alone.

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Don't Talk About COVID-19

You can't escape the news about COVID-19. It's critical to stay informed, but it can be overwhelming when you're regularly updated on new cases, especially if you have it. The last thing your friend wants to talk about right now is the number of COVID-19 cases in the country or the newly discovered symptoms. It's okay to ask your friend how they're doing and inquire about their condition, but it's probably a good idea to avoid discussing negative news and updates. Avoid the topic unless your friend brings it up and indicates that they want to discuss the coronavirus. Your friend probably wants a distraction like talking about your favorite Netflix show. You can even suggest that you watch Netflix together and talk about it over the phone or through Teleparty.

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Ask How You Can (Safely) Help

An easy way to support your friends is by finding safe ways to help them. It's challenging to help while protecting your health, but there are small ways you can make life easier for your friend. You can take notes from them if they're missing school, help them with homework if they are falling behind, check in to make sure they're taking care of themselves or Ubereats their favorite meal to their doorstep. It may not seem like much, but your friend will be so grateful for your help and support.

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Give Them Space

Naturally, you're concerned about your friend and want to make sure that they're fine, but you also have to give your friend space. They are going through a mentally and physically exhausting situation. At times, they may be too overwhelmed or tired to answer your texts, and that's okay. The best thing you can do for your friend is to respect their boundaries. Let them know that you are always there for them when they need and that they can reach out at any time.

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Listen

Your friend is going through a very scary and uncertain situation. They might be anxious, upset, exhausted, lonely, frustrated or all of the above. What they need more than ever is for someone to listen to them. It's important to let them know that it's safe for them to vent to you about anything. Don't try to give advice or talk about a time that you were sick. Just let them talk without interruption or judgment. You can reassure them that they will be okay and validate what they are feeling. They're lucky to have a friend as amazing as you and they will appreciate that you're there for them.

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It's amazing that you're giving support to your friends and family, but don't forget to take care of yourself! HERE are five self-care practices to try if your love language is words of affirmation.