A Message from our Executive Director Regarding COVID-19

A message from our Executive Director

Regarding COVID-19

Dear All,

If you have watched TV or listened to the radio, you have no doubt heard a lot of distressing news about the novel coronavirus , also known as COVID-19 . On March 5 ^th , Governor Hogan issued an emergency proclamation for the state of Maryland in response to the first confirmed case of COVID-19 identified in our state. It is important to remember that, while this sounds frightening, it happened out of an abundance of caution and to allow those in the state to get help if they need it. In 2019, Maryland had an estimated population of 6,062,659; as of Tuesday, 3/10/2020, only 6 people in Maryland were reportedly affected by the virus.

Having confirmed cases in the state adds to the stress of the situation and makes us susceptible to fear and misinformation. While NAMI Maryland is taking the COVID-19 seriously, we also want to make sure the people whom we serve, those who live with mental illness and those who love them, don't miss out on the information and support that we and our NAMI affiliates have to offer.

NAMI Maryland is closely monitoring ongoing updates about COVID-19 here in our state . We recommend viewing the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) for updated information on COVID-19. We will continue to check the MDH and CDC websites daily for updates and listen for new information from local news and public healthcare providers.

As of yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), NAMI’s main source of information, notes the following in terms of risk assessment:

For most people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low. This virus is not currently widespread in the United States.
People in places where confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been reported are at elevated risk of exposure, with increased risk dependent on the location.
Healthcare workers caring for patients with COVID-19 are at elevated risk of exposure.
Close contacts of persons with COVID-19 also are at elevated risk of exposure.
Travelers returning from affected international locations where community spread is occurring also are at elevated risk of exposure, with increase in risk dependent on the location and so may not be allowed into the United States. The CDC recommends avoiding non-essential travel to several countries. Before traveling, consult travel guidance from the CDC.

The symptoms of the COVID-19 are:

Mild to severe respiratory illness, fever, cough, shortness of breath

What to do if you have symptoms:

If you develop symptoms, call your healthcare provider and tell them about your symptoms. Do not go into the doctor's office or hospital unless your healthcare provider asks you to.
If your symptoms are mild and you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, stay home and report your situation to others with whom you have been in contact, including as applicable, your affiliate and NAMI Maryland.
If your symptoms are severe or life-threatening, call 911.
Please follow the CDC guidance to reduce your risk of spreading it to others.

How you can protect yourself and others from the spread of coronavirus or any other respiratory disease:

Wash your hands, often and for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the alphabet or the Happy Birthday song)
Avoid close contact with people who are sick or otherwise at risk.
Get your flu vaccine if you have not already.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Cover any cough or sneeze with a tissue then throw it in the trash or use the inside of your elbow.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Make sure you have the kinds of foods, drinks, medication and pet supplies you would want if you needed to stay home and limit your contact with other people for a couple of weeks.
Get to know your neighbors, especially those who might need extra help like seniors or people living alone.
If you come in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or develop symptoms of COVID-19, STAY HOME and self-quarantine.
Report your situation to others and to us. We care about you!

Ways to Avoid Headline Anxiety and to Cope

with the News

(sources: X X )

Avoid triggering topics in the news.
Limit your news consumption.
Be cognizant of your social media use.
Practice good stress management.
Understand that it is normal to be somewhat concerned by this, but try to not let fear drive your anxiety to an unhealthy level.

To put this new and concerning situation into perspective:

Understand that it will be life-disrupting for a while.
Settle in.
We’re ALL working as hard and as quickly as we can.
Grace is helpful. Anger is not.
Stay calm.
Keep your germs to yourself.
Limit large gatherings.
It’s going to be ok but it’s going to be bumpy for a while.

Please stay safe and protect your mental health! We are here to help, so please do not hesitate to email us at info@namimd.org or call the NAMI Maryland office at

(410) 884-8691 if you have any questions.

Yours sincerely,

Kate Farinholt

Executive Director