Written by: Christopher Plein, Ph.D. West Virginia University & OneOp Military Caregiving concentration
Many of us recall the tragic events of September 11, 2001. In the days that followed, we were anxious and apprehensive. Finding comfort and confidence was the order of the day as we moved into a new reality. We sought out sources of information and guidance for clarity, guidance, and reassurance. Those of us old enough know the feelings of uncertainty that accompany national crisis. As a professor, I look at students and realize that there are many who have not been there before. Without points of reference and comparison, it is even more difficult to face the challenges we have today. We need to keep in mind this as we come together as a community to meet challenges before us.
OneOp is working hard to get timely, relevant, and helpful information to those in and around the military community. For example, you can visit our website and access relevant information for military families and those who provide support services.
We are in this together to identify and share resources that might be helpful. For example, the resources of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the Department of Defense, and other entities such as the Uniformed Services University’s Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress are timely and readily accessible. Just this week, the Department of Defense hosted a virtual town hall meeting on COVID-19 for the military community.
We may also be seeking more general sources of news and insight. There are authoritative resources out there that can provide guidance. As mentioned in various blogs, I have long recommended the journal, Health Affairs, as a good resource for information on health and medicine. The journal is hosting site dedicated to the COVID-19 pandemic. There is also a lot of talk about the nature of pandemics, research into the disease, and possible treatments and vaccines. The American Association for the Advancement of Science provides easy to understand expert analysis through its Science magazine webpage that focuses on COVID-19.
Please take care during these times and stay safe.
