A DERBY self-help specialist has urged the general public to start thinking with more clarity as the world deals with the coronavirus outbreak.
The virus – known as Covid 19 – was declared pandemic by the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) earlier this month, leading to panic buying by shoppers and the UK Government to announce the temporary closure of schools, pubs and restaurants in an unprecedented move.
Kul Mahay, a leadership and emotional intelligence specialist who spent more than 30 years working for Derbyshire Constabulary, says that language we have seen being used in the media can become very emotive . He has urged the public to think with more clarity as countries around the world struggle to contain the disease.
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“The issue we have with the spread of coronavirus – as we’ve seen previously with outbreaks of SARS and swine flu – is that language can become very emotive and often leads to unnecessary panic, which is being driven by a panicked group mindset,” he said.
“We hear of people doing it in other countries so we feel compelled to do it here, even though, deep down, we know it makes little sense.
“Decisions and thoughts that come from a ‘panic’ mindset tend to be from a certain part of the brain which only focusses on emotions and therefore may not be the best thought through.
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“We go into what is known as ‘fight-or-flight’ mode; this is known as the acute stress response and refers to a physiological reaction that occurs in the presence of something we find terrifying – either mentally or physically.”
Kul, who offers leadership coaching for senior leaders – including those in the police force, university lecturers and teaching staff – has offered advice for those who have been rushing to the supermarket to stock up on toilet rolls, dried pasta and hand wash.
Kul has also, following the latest advice from the Government and WHO, taken the decision to postpone his eagerly-anticipated Create and Speak course for children and young adults, which was due to take place later this month.
“The best thing we can do is to start thinking with more clarity,” said Kul.
“Ask ourselves clearer, simple questions that could help to reduce the risk of contracting and infecting the disease. Take a breath; do you really need to buy so many toilet rolls? There was a case recently of hand sanitiser being stolen from a hospital, which is ludicrous.
“I’ve made the sensible decision to postpone Create & Speak for children and young adults until later this month, following advice that is being circulated.
“It is the right thing to do, based on the current situation.
“As a country, we also need to take sensible precautions; try not to lose your head and follow guidelines from the NHS and WHO. Use a tissue – or your elbow – when sneezing or coughing and wash your hands more frequently.”
The WHO had refrained from using the term ‘pandemic’ initially.
But, following an increase in the number of deaths worldwide, WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus officially declared it a pandemic because of a deep concern over ‘alarming levels of inaction’ over the virus – for which there is currently no vaccine.
“I have been asked by parents for advice to give to their children, who are obviously worrying about the effects of coronavirus,” added Kul.
“This panic mindset can cause increased anxiety and stress. Whilst it’s a difficult time for everyone, the best advice I can give is to try and remain calm and collected and to not create panic within our communities.
“The WHO has also issued some valuable advice regarding mental health during the pandemic. It includes avoid watching, listening to or reading news which could cause stress and seeking information about protecting yourself and loved ones practically.”
ENDS
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