supporting essential workers
Frontline heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic include doctors, nurses, first responders, grocery store workers, delivery drivers and another group you may not be hearing as much about: direct support professionals (DSPs). DSPs support and guide people with physical and intellectual disabilities, ultimately aiming to integrate them into their community or least restrictive environment. More than 110,000 DSPs in New York State assist, advocate for, mentor, teach and encourage those they serve to be as productive and independent as possible.
As most of the world shelters in place, DSPs are still showing up to care for those in need. They work long hours to support individuals with various levels of need all while adhering to strict protocols and regulations. Their demanding work can be very draining and stressful, especially in the face of this serious health risk that threatens them, their loved ones and those they serve.
If your loved one is a DSP, or essential worker, here are some ways that you can show appreciation and care for them during this unprecedented time.
- Talk it out: Check in with your loved one often. Given the stressful nature of their work, find out what might be weighing on them, and, on the flip-side, ask what is going well and listen intently. Allow them to vent and ask questions to engage them further in conversation. Let them know that you are there to listen whenever they need or want to talk and stay connected.
- Respect social distancing: Elizabeth Cline, a DSP for Greystone Programs, encourages members of the community to continue to stay home, listen to health officials and save more lives. By supporting the guidelines that have been put in place, you can make it safer for all essential workers who are continuing to risk their health by going to work every day. Araceli Navarro, who also serves as a DSP for Greystone Programs, agrees that social distancing and hand washing are great ways of showing support. “Knowing that just because you or someone you know hasn’t been affected, doesn’t mean it’s not happening,” said Navarro.
- Encourage them to set boundaries: The work of DSPs and other essential workers is extremely demanding – more so now. They often work long shifts supporting those in need and that can be mentally and physically exhausting. Encourage them to set boundaries like declining an extra shift or taking time a mental health day if needed. In the current environment, taking personal time might be difficult, so even if making the most of days off is the only option, help your loved one recharge, decompress and prioritize self-care when they are off the clock.
- Pitch in at home: Many frontline workers are balancing their important work with taking care of their families, homeschooling and/or other personal errands or chores. If you can help by cleaning, cooking, running errands or taking care of children and pets, you might take away some of their burden. If you are also balancing work with household and personal obligations, figure out a way to share the responsibilities. Having a teammate or supporter who is willing to roll up their sleeves and help is so appreciated, whether a partner, spouse, child, neighbor or friend.
- Help them have fun: Drive to your local ice cream shop and get carry out, take a walk, do a puzzle together, have a Zoom happy hour, convert your living room into a movie theater or bake something new. Think of ways to have fun and rest together when your loved one is off work, and if you cannot physically be together, try virtual communication. The House Party app is a great way to play games together, or you can utilize video conferencing platforms to spend time catching up.
- Show appreciation: Your loved one is putting their heart and soul into work that often goes unnoticed and unappreciated by society. Remind them that they are essential and so deeply cherished by many for the work they do. Consider writing a sweet social media post in their honor, decorating their lawn with signs of appreciation, throwing a special party through video chat with loved ones, ordering them self-care items like a fuzzy robe or a soothing bath gel or simply saying “Thank you for all that you do. I am so proud of you.”
- Share resources: Your loved one may benefit from outside resources. If they are struggling with their mental health, there is no shame in seeking help. Whether through counseling, a crisis hotline or a support group, there are many resources available, including:
For Mental Health Assistance:
- New York State Mental Health Program Directory
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)*
- New York State Emotional Support Line: 1-844-863-9314
- New York State Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-942-6906
- Crisis Text Line: Text "Got5" to 741-741
*If you need immediate medical assistance, please dial 911.
For DSPs: