Volunteer action counts

In lieu of International Volunteer Day, United Nations Volunteers Sri Lanka will be featuring a series of articleson volunteering during a Pandemic

Schools have been closed for a while now due to the pandemic situation in the country.

Anuki and Nadeesh have been at home ever since the school closed down. Classes are still conducted online but, it’s getting boring day by day. Staying indoors is no fun!Anuki is 14 and Nadeesh is 18. Nadeesh is facing his G.C.E (A/L)’s next year. Anuki likes sports, she used to have practices at least 3 days a week. Now she doesn’t even get to meet her team mates. Anuki is worried there won’t be any national level sports to compete in this year.

Nadeesh loves Physics and Chemistry, he is sad because now with online classes he cannot do physics and chemistry practical sessions. Amma is working from home, she is busy most of the time. Thaththa works extra hours these days. Both of them are stressed and don’t get along as well as before. Anuki and Nadeesh used to visit Achchi every weekend. Now they have not visited her for about a month. Anuki and Nadeesh are both frustrated as they have lost their normal routine.

Like for Anuki and Nadeesh these times can be stressful for most of us.Significant changes have happened to our daily lives. Online classes, reduced outdoor activities, lack of physical contact with extended family members, friends and colleagues, working from home and for some, temporary unemployment have all become the new reality. In addition, the uncertainty about the future, lack of regular routine, concerning information and newshave all contributed to add stress on everyone’s lives.

For most of Sri Lankans life has changed significantly. During such times, it is important that we look after our mental, as well as physical wellbeing.

Volunteerism is one of the clearest expressions of solidarity. As Dr. Tedros mentions solidarity in times of crisis is extremely important. Volunteering is a great vehicle for solidarity and social inclusion.

It is important to know that during difficult and uncertain times its normal to feel concerned, stressed, sad and even angry. Your emotions are valid. In trying times like this everyone needs a support system to rely on.

If you are like Anuki and Nadeesh what can you do?

If you have any concerns, worries it’s always good to share them with someone you trust. Try not to keep things to yourself. You can discuss with your parents’, elders and friends. Voice your ideas, suggest new things and share your thoughts with them. If you find a family member or friend who is feeling anxious or sad, make sure to reach out and offer your support without any judgment. Listen to what they have to say. During times like this we may not be able to find solutions foreverything buthaving someone who listens to you can be a source of strength. We can be there for each other through the difficult times.

Another thing that helps manage difficult times is to create aroutine. While you can create a timetable for yourself you can also work with your family members to create a routine for your whole family. make sure to allocate some “family time” where you all can do something fun and enjoyable together. Also maintain your social connections with family and friends.

Today’s technology of audio and video calls, messaging servicescan be used for this. There is no harm in going old school and sending a hand-made card or a handwritten letter to your friends and loved ones. Engaging in simple acts of kindness is a great way to manage stress too.

During the unprecedented times of COVID 19, many people are anxious and inneedof support. Volunteering is a great way for you to contribute.“Volunteering”is your willingness to do a service without expecting any benefit in return.

Studies show that volunteering makes you feel positivebecause you have done something good – so it helps your emotional wellbeing. It also helps to improve your social connections, build self-confidence and make a positive change in the society.

There are many ways to engage in volunteerism; organizing simple things with your family and friends like distributing goods to needy families in your community, helping elders in your community order medicine online, setting up a handwashing facility near the local store or making a thank you note to someone in your community who continues to work as a frontline worker during these difficult times.

Given the current circumstances, make sure to follow all the safety measures. It’s our responsibility to make sure that we keep ourselves and communities safe while we support to make things better. Followpublic health and social measures at all times. Adhere to guidelines issued by relevant authorities. Even the simplest things can make a big difference.If you like to volunteer formally, initiatives like the UNV – V Force and other civil society organizationscan be a great platform.

During the past months many people, including celebrities and young people, have volunteered to support World Health Organization ( WHO) Sri Lanka in creating messages, doing community work to spread awareness on how to be safe from COVID 19. WHO has been supporting the government of Sri Lanka together with Directorate of Mental Health to strengthen mental health services in the country.

During the past months WHOhas also provided information and guidance to public on selfcare and mental wellbeing. WHO in collaboration with Community of Practitioners for Mental Health and Psychosocial support ( COP- MHPSS) distributed the illustrated guide on ‘Doing What Matters in Times of Stress’ in Sinhala and Tamil languages

A community-based violence prevention programme ‘ Manohari’has been implemented which breaks away from traditional models of mental health treatment and counselling.

The program relies instead on storytelling, drama, dialogue and role modelling. WHO continues to provide technical evidence- based guidance to Sri Lanka through regional and global networking.

Volunteering builds lasting new connections with people who share common goals and mindsets.

Giving your skills, talents and time for volunteering can make the world a better place. It will also make you feel confident, productive and good about your contributions. Your actions will also inspire others to do similar contributions to their communities.

Find opportunities to amplify positive and hopeful stories and positive images of local people who have experienced COVID19. For example, stories of people who have recovered or who have supported a loved one and are willing to share their experience.

We can and will overcome this together! Until then:

Be Kind – Be Healthy – Be a Volunteer ! ‘ Want to be a Volunteer and help the community? Visit www. unvlk. org and register to be a V-Force Volunteer today!”