The Ripple Effect of COVID-19

COVID-19’s ill effects cannot be measured simply by deaths, cases, economic impact, or vaccination rates. We must look at all areas it negatively impacts. Suicide rates, overdoses, divorce rates, and increased cases of mental health issues.  With this said, how do we navigate forward, especially in areas that are not traditionally related to a physical injury or pandemic?

As a Master Sergeant in the Air Force and charged with the safety, training, well being, of a flight of Airmen and their families, a whole health approach was mandatory to address the entire scope of actual and potential issues. First, I had to recognize that each of my Airmen was equal in value and worth to the team. Of course, we had those that excelled in their discipline, each still had equal value.

Second, I learned what each Airman’s “Why” consisted of. What made them get up in the morning and put on the uniform? Was it family, education, steady paycheck? Regardless, each had a “Why” that drove their motive to serve. I learned it. Next, I spent time with each Airman to inspire, motivate, and encourage individually and collectively. I praised in public and corrected in private. Lastly, I gave each Airman tools to succeed. If an Airman wanted to go back to school, we worked to make that happen. If an Airman wanted to get promoted, we worked to make that happen.  This is the whole health approach. All aspects of the individual are addressed.

The same approach for COVID-19 recovery is important. Family dynamics, mental health impact, as well as social impact are all areas that must be addressed for all Americans moving forward in the recovery of COVID-19 disastrous impact. 

This is why diversity and representation is important. We need leaders, from all walks of life,  to reach those in their sphere of influence to positively impact. I can reach some, you can reach some, and together we can reach everyone. Learning what drives our fellow Americans, then reaching them in order to bring about positive change physically, mentally, and spiritually, can positively change the negative impact of COVID-19 on all facets of our society both locally and abroad.

Sam Alix is a regular contributor to the Observer and is the co-founder of CHAMP; visit www.champ.vet to learn more.

Featured photo credit: Photo by Linus Nylund on Unsplash