When discussing COVID-19 with psychosocial oncology experts Devita Streva and Wanda McEntyre, you’re likely to hear an alternative to the widely-used term, “social distancing.” “I much prefer ‘physical distancing’ — the idea that folks can stay socially connected even if they have to maintain a safe physical distance,” says Streva, LISW-S, OSW-C, a member of the OSUCCC – James Psychosocial Oncology Program. “Those with a strong social-support system tend to do better with any illness, especially cancer — it helps to stay connected,” adds McEntyre, PhD, ABPP, also a member of The James’ program. As most Americans live under stay-at-home orders due to the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining strong social support ties has become more challenging for many cancer patients, who can be at high risk of serious health effects from the novel coronavirus due to compromised immune systems. To help, Streva and McEntyre are sharing several tips on how to stay connected, productive and positive during this unprecedented time. Keep the routine “One of the most helpful things I’ve found is to encourage people to maintain some semblance of a normal routine — as much as is feasible and possible,” Streva says. This can include consistent wake-up and breakfast times, making the bed, getting dressed and making schedules of things to do throughout the day, including domestic and work-related tasks, or that involve social interaction, such as phone calls to friends and family. “You don’t want to stay in your PJs all day,” Streva says. Make meetings Get-togethers are a bit more challenging, but can be made easy with the help of online meeting programs, which can provide free and easy ways to videoconference with family and friends. “It helps reduce that feeling of isolation,” McEntyre says. Zoom, Skype, Facebook, FaceTime and WhatsApp are popular videoconferencing options. And, while walking with friends isn’t currently recommended, taking a stroll while safely talking over the phone can be a great way to maintain connections while getting some exercise. Self care Take time for you, Streva stresses. “Be intentional about your self care, which can include meditation, relaxation, exercise and more. There are so many videos available online and on YouTube. Try and do at least one thing every day for you that will help you feel better.” Get free audio and visual guides for relaxation exercises and mindfulness practices from Ohio State’s Center for Integrative Medicine. Watch a guided meditation video designed for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Get creative A lot of people are staving off cabin fever by working on arts and crafts around the house, and/or by flexing their culinary muscles in the kitchen. “I’ve talked to people who are doing adult coloring books or crafts — something they haven’t done in a while that’s creative and fun,” Streva says. “Someone told me she dug out a few old cookbooks and has been experimenting with some new recipes,” McEntyre says. Reading is fundamental “A lot of the people I’ve been talking to have begun reading a lot more,” McEntyre says. “Audio books are quite popular, and if you have a library card, you may be able to download them for free.” She also suggests listening to Ted Talks and to be inspired by amazing stories and speakers. TV or Not TV? Everything in moderation, Streva says, especially when it comes to binging your favorite shows on Netflix, Amazon, Disney or Hulu. “Too much can numb you in a way that’s maybe not healthy, so put a limit on the amount of media you consume” she says. Streva also recommends uplifting and humorous shows rather than “scary or too-intense shows that are only going to add to the stress you’re already feeling.” Opting in or out Over the years, Streva has learned that some of her patients find it important to connect with fellow members of the cancer community, while others “don’t want to get involved in cancer support groups because they don’t want to be reminded of it.” Neither way is right or wrong — it’s an individual choice. McEntyre has found that, while sheltering in place presents challenges to cancer patients, the extra time at home can also provide some benefits. “They feel comforted by the safety of their home during their cancer treatment. They may be dealing with a change in appearance, such as hair loss or weight gain, and they may be fatigued and just aren’t up to being around friends,” she says. “Some have shared that spending more time with their children, who are also at their homes, has been a positive during this time.” To schedule an appointment with an OSUCCC – James psychotherapist, first contact your primary care physician or oncologist for a referral, then call 614-366-8700. Get comprehensive COVID-19 information from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. OSUCCC – James COVID-19 Coverage Important Information for Patients At-Home Exercise Tips Telehealth Options for Immunocompromised Patients Virtual Care Tips for Cancer Patients