How can I stay connected to others during the COVID-19 pandemic?

The COVID-19 pandemic is a stressful time for many of us as we weather unprecedented challenges and adjust to work-from-home routines. The Research Integrity, Safety, and Compliance (RISC) Initiative would like to offer some tips for preventing isolation and loneliness during this difficult time as well as encourage you to regularly visit SU’s COVID-19 webpage.

• Call or text a work friend to say hello and catch up. Have regular check-ins with coworkers to see how one another are doing. Consider calling during a lunch break or some other time where you would normally chat with each other.
• Establish a virtual “space” where you can hang out with coworkers in a relaxed environment. You can create Zoom meetings specifically for social events, where you and your coworkers can catch up in a non-work environment.
• Be mindful of your news consumption and technological use. While it is important to stay informed and technology is keeping us connected now more than ever, it is also important to unplug occasionally for peace of mind. Take time each day away from your screens.
• Get enough rest. Stress and a changing routine can lead to unusual sleep schedules, and it is not uncommon to be feeling overly tired during this time. Try to get 7.5-9 hours of sleep every night and stick to a sleep schedule resembling that of your normal routine.

We will get through this together. For more information, please contact RISC at promotesafety@seattleu.edu.