It is normal to be scared, distressed, or angry when there is a new infectious disease outbreak in our communities. Fear is a natural response to the unknown, and we are still figuring out how COVID-19 will affect our families and our communities. We need to be careful that fear is not what we spread across our communities. To learn more on how to spread calm actions that will help us be prepared, healthy, and informed, click here. 

As a result of the current pandemic, Americans are required to be less social in order to avoid infecting themselves and others with the virus. Although the implementation of “physical distancing” - avoiding close contact with other individuals in order to avoid catching the virus yourself and passing it along - is necessary to prevent the current pandemic from worsening, the collapse in social contact is going to negatively affect those populations most vulnerable to isolation and loneliness.

The Coalition to End Social Isolation & Loneliness has put together a compilation of resources on the physical, behavioral, and mental health effects of physical distancing and how to stay connected with others while intentionally isolating oneself. Click here to learn more.

Your thoughts and feelings affect your overall well-being.  

The first step to getting help is often the most difficult. Explore self-care resources, chat online with Kaiser Permanente doctor, or talk to a wellness coach.  For more information click here.  

Keys to improving your well-being during COVID-19

• Stick to a regular schedule
• Keep your immune system strong by washing your hands, getting enough sleep, eating well, staying hydrated, and exercising
• Stay connected to family, friends, and support systems using technology like FaceTime or Skype
• Make time to unwind and to do activities you enjoy
• Get outside for fresh air, but practice social distancing
• Stay informed, but limit media consumption that may trigger or elevate anxiety, stress, or panic

Ways to Connect with your Coworkers remotely

• Schedule remote walking meetings for your 1:1 or check-ins
• Take a virtual coffee break for 15 minutes
• Share photos of pets enjoying the new routine
• Share tips on what’s going well for you while working from home & encourage them to do the same

Work (FROM HOME) Wellness: 10 tips to enhance your well-being while working remotely

Telework.gov Safety Checklist for maintaining a safe home office

National Institute of Health: Computer Workstation Ergonomics: Self-Assessment Checklist 

Everyone needs support for total health — mind, body, and spirit. Digital tools can help you navigate life’s challenges, make small changes that improve sleep, mood, and more, or simply support an overall sense of well-being.

Explore activities and techniques that can benefit anyone — either as self-guided selfcare or complements to clinical support. They’re not intended to replace treatment or advice, but they can help you build resilience, set goals, and take meaningful steps toward becoming a healthier, happier you.

If you are a Kaiser Premanente member and want to learn more, please click here!

A financial session that gives DPS employees a better understanding of the Colorado PERA retirement system and benefits.

• View Webinar

Self-care at your fingertips - at no cost to Kaiser Permanente members.  These wellness apps can help you naviage life's challenges, and make small changes to improve your sleep, mood, relationships, and more.  

Calm - an app for meditation, mental resilience, and sleep. Click here to learn more.