Scientists and the medical professionals are still struggling to document exactly what the coronavirus (COVID-19) is doing to our bodies when we get it. There is a lot we just don’t know, there is uncertainty. This has led to the coronavirus pandemic affecting almost all of us at some level-economically, socially and personally.

A recent survey conducted by the Marshall Area Chamber and the Marshall Economic Development Authority recently partnered to learn about the business impacts as a result of the pandemic.

When asked about the financial status of their businesses, 42 percent of participants indicated that they have seen a large negative impact on their sales/revenue with 35 percent anticipating the negative impact to continue over the next six months. With several federal, state, and local funds available, 72 percent of participants stated that they have applied for a financial assistance program

With reduced hours and business closings, 57 percent of the respondents indicated that they already have or anticipate reducing staff hours. In addition, 21 percent already have or are anticipating the need to eliminate employees.

Some people have lost their jobs or endured significant financial stress because of the pandemic leading to worries about how they will be able to pay bills if this continues.

We’ve been cut off from our friends, coworkers and loved ones. Our children have had the school year cut short and many of us can’t go to the office and other places of business, places that contribute as much to our need for socialization as they do to any work product or education.

This time of year, high school and college seniors, who’ve worked so hard to achieve their educational goals, don’t get to celebrate and bond with their friends at graduation ceremonies. Weddings, anniversary, birthday celebrations have been limited, with funerals to take place at later date and time. Milestones and ceremonies and shared experiences like these are an important part of our existence.

Although most of the preventative measures put into place such as social distancing and wearing of personal protective equipment has created physical limitations, as COVID-19 unfolds, mental and emotional impacts are just as real.

Some common reactions to the current crisis may be anxiety, worry or panic, social withdrawal, feeling helpless or confused, anger and feelings of loss or grief. As a result, we need to take care of others and ourselves:

• Stay connected in the community: Stay in touch with friends and family, attend your daily activities, and don’t be afraid to rely on others for emotional support.

• Check on your neighbors: Call or text your neighbors (especially elderly neighbors) to make sure they’re doing okay and ask if there is anything that they need.

• Try not to make assumptions, follow reputable sources about the outbreak and be cautious of social media and news stories.

• Donate: While many of us are busy hunkering down and pouring over the latest CDC recommendations, many of our businesses and non-profits need financial support. So if you have the resources, consider making additional purchases or a financial donation to the places who need you now in order to keep their business or organization alive.

• Talk about it: Most of us gain comfort in knowing that we are not alone. It may help to hear that others are feeling the same way and even admit that they are a little worried, too. Validation of feelings creates healthy relationships with others.

In a recent article a professional in the field of uncertainty writes that the human spirit is remarkably resilient.

Each one of us has faced personal loss, disappointment, and failure, and yet we survived; we adapted. The present moment is the only moment we have control over right now, let’s continue to find ways be in this together.

— Sharon Hanson is the city administrator for the city of Marshall