23 Reasons That Explains You Are An Introvert, The Tenth Will Blow Your Mind.

23 Reasons That Explains You Are An Introvert

By Richard Waita, Author, Freelancer, and Keynote Speaker.

23. Small talks aren’t their thing

How do you define an introvert? Locating the guy who sits alone in a party or the one who doesn’t speak much? Truth be told, our definition of an introvert is quite wrong. Being withdrawn from the crowd is only a small part of being an introvert. Even somebody who is the life of a party can be an introvert. It’s about finding out how that person perceives the tiniest of details that make him an introvert. Listed below are 23 signs that determine whether you are an introvert or not; Introverts tend to find small talks quite annoying. Some may even say that introverts get nervous while making small talk. It’s not because they dislike people, no, it is because they hate the artificial barrier it creates between the two people.

22. Introverts go to parties not to meet people

Introverts tend to go to parties because of what a party represents, the food and drinks and maybe a few dances. They don’t go to parties to meet new people. That part of a party does not excite them. In fact, they would prefer sitting and talking with the people they know than meet new people.

21. They feel alone in a crowd

Well, this comes up as no big surprise. Introverts do feel alone in a social gathering or any random crowd. They feel different and might let friends or activities pick them, rather than extending their own invitations.

20. Networking makes them feel fake

Networking can sometimes feel like ingenious for introverts. They don’t believe it’s real and prefer making contact with people based on authentic connections. At the same time, introverts find networking very stressful. They don’t want to do so much work or put much effort.

19. Introverts become too intense

A common trait among introverts is that they tend to become too intense. Whether it is discussing a simple topic or reading up something on the internet, they like to go deep. They enjoy delving into the deeper territories of almost everything. They also have a penchant for philosophical conversations.

18. They are easily distracted

Extroverts tend to get bored and distracted when they don’t have anything to do. Introverts are completely opposite. Give them a list of work to do and they will become distracted at the slightest of distractions. In other words, introverts get easily distracted and overwhelmed in environments with an excess of stimulation.

17. Downtime doesn’t feel wrong

Introverts don’t mind spending a day sitting idly at home doing nothing. Rather they tend to thrive in such conditions. They feel the need to recharge their batteries and what better way to do it than sitting at home being unproductive. This trait is completely opposite of an extrovert who feel the need to do something all the time.

16. Large crowds are better than individuals

This happens to be an interesting point regarding introverts. They prefer talking in front of a larger crowd of 500 people than having to talk to individuals or a small number of people. Introverts are proven to be great public speakers and leaders. They can talk to a large mass with ease but struggle while talking about the same thing to a single person.

15. They sit at the end on a bus

Introverts don’t like being surrounded by people. Whether it is in a social gathering or on the bus, they prefer to remain in aside from where they can easily escape. As a result, they tend to sit at the far end on a bus. This way they are not flocked by people on both sides, and they can easily exit the bus.

14. You need a recharging period

Introverts tend to get tired after spending a couple of hours doing something. They also become unresponsive after working for too long. This is their way of switching to energy-conserving mode. Introverts will find a quiet corner and just zone out for a couple of hours and recharge their batteries.

13. Introverts date extroverts

This is the purest example of “opposites attract”. Introverts have a tendency of leaning towards extroverts when it comes to dating. This may be due to the positive vibe and energy spread by the extroverts. These extroverts encourage the introverts to socialize and meet people and do things that they would not normally do.

12. They prefer specializing than knowing everything

Introverts always want to become specialized in one particular skill. They don’t want to become a jack of all trade. They prefer spending all their time and energy learning and mastering one task.

11. Avoid shows with audience participation

Well, the headline is pretty self-explanatory. Introverts don’t want the spotlight to be on them in the middle of the show as the host asks them questions or asks them to participate.

10. Introverts don’t like phone calls

Whenever there is a phone call, even if it is from a person they like, introverts will try to avoid it. They will, however, call back once they feel they have the mental preparation and energy to talk with them. Quite weird, we know.

9. Introverts have good eyes

They will notice details before anyone else does. Call it their own superpower, introverts tend to catch the tiniest of details that may escape the eyes of others. They exhibit an increased brain activity and as a result, they catch such tiny details.

8. They keep talking inside their heads

Introverts have a habit of being in constant conversation with themselves. They think through a matter at least 10 times before acting upon it.

7. They have low blood pressure

According to a study done in Japan, introverts have low blood pressure compared to extroverts.

6. Introverts are called “wise”

Due to their action of thinking things through before acting on it, introverts have been known to be called wise. They think a lot before speaking and as a result, they appear to be wiser than their fellow colleague or friends.

5. Introverts don’t feel high from the surroundings

Introverts differ from extroverts as to the feeling of getting high. They prefer reaping rewards of the environment in a different way instead of partying all the time or using the substance.

4. They look at the big picture

Despite having an eye for details, introverts like looking at the bigger picture. They want to look at a whole image rather than concentrating on one certain part.

3. They are asked to come out of their shell

A common case regarding the majority of the introverts is that, at some point in their life, they have been asked to come out of their shell, socialize more or even participate in class. They have been lead to believe that something is wrong with them.

2. Introverts are writers

Most introverts feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings via pen and paper. Rather than communicating with a person, they find solace in a paper and have proven to be quite creative. They work better when left alone, to express their thoughts by writing.

1. They balance things well

Introverts are good at balancing their time and effort among phase of work, solitude and periods of social activity. If they overspend their energy doing one particular thing, they will move and find a balance again. A period of heightened social activity may be followed by a period of increased solitude and work.

A person who feels appreciated will always do more than expected!

The long-term success of any company depends on the quality and loyalty of it’s employees. In this fast-paced, rapidly changing business environment in which corporate growth and profitability are critical, companies need to revamp their strategy for finding and retaining the best talent. According to research by Gallup less than 30 percent of employees say they are loyal to their company.

By Richard Waita Author, Freelancer & Keynote Speaker.

The long-term success of any company depends on the quality and loyalty of it’s employees. In this fast-paced, rapidly changing business environment in which corporate growth and profitability are critical, companies need to revamp their strategy for finding and retaining the best talent. According to research by Gallup less than 30 percent of employees say they are loyal to their company. Frequent turnover has a negative impact on employee morale, productivity and company revenue. Every time a business loses and replaces a salaried employee, it can costs up to 6 to 9 months’ salary. A lack of loyalty isn’t just employees who are leaving. In many cases, they stay on and show disloyalty through attitudes. In a way, that’s worse than if they left.

If companies are going to excel, they need two things: Loyal Employees and Loyal Customers. The link between employee satisfaction and productivity is long-established. Research has found that happy workers are 12% more productive than their less satisfied counterparts. Loyal employees = Loyal customers. Loyal employees are worth more than their weight in gold. They uphold your brand and ensure the sustainability of your business. They go the extra mile. They make it possible for you to win.

Give your Employees reasons to Stay

The reality is that employees are only as loyal to the company as they believe the company is loyal to them. So in the end, building an organization of committed, loyal employees ultimately comes down to demonstrating to employees that the company deserves their loyalty. You need to provide a reason for your employees to be loyal. Employees want challenging work, recognition and respect, opportunities for advancement, professional growth and development, and a flexible work environment. Studies abound that show when your employees are connected and engaged (i.e. loyal), business booms.

Don’t just focus on the bottom line. Invest in the people responsible for the bottom line.

There is true profitability involved when you cultivate employee loyalty. At the University of Pennsylvania, researchers discovered that businesses that spent 10% of their revenue on capital improvements saw a 3.9% productivity increase. But get this—when that same 10% was invested in employees, productivity went up 8.5%.

Employees want to be treated like human beings. They have feelings, emotions and personal lives. When an organization treats its employee like an object, they feel disrespected. When, on the other hand, an organization appreciates it employees, shows empathy, and is flexible, this will make them think twice about leaving.

Loyal employees show up, deliver results, and consistently go above and beyond to support the company. In the end, people make companies successful. Any strategy or business plan relies on motivated and engaged people to make it happen! This is why the most successful companies focus on people and relationships and make sure both are not just managed but lead and cared for. Want Loyal Employees? Treat your people well!

Most educated people in Kenya are poor. Not just poor, but very Poor. Why? Read the article...

Most educated people in Kenya are poor. Not just poor, but very Poor. Why? 

Because 80% of the educated people in Kenya earn less than Kshs. 50,000 for a salary before tax and other deductions. When the deductions are put into consideration, the net salary comes to around Kshs 35,000. 

The net salary then suffers from loan deductions of up to 10,000 leaving the salary at around kshs 25,000. The landlord then demands for his 10,000 and monthly shopping takes away 5,000 leaving one with a 10,000. The bus will demand for 4,000 going to and from work and relatives get another 2,000. Remaining 5,000 can't even take care of one kid in a nice private school, whole salary is gone and borrowed money starts operating. The borrowed money includes short loans and salary advances whereby payment is up to 50% in interest. 

The difference between poverty and prosperity is property. A prosperous person has property to his name while a poverty stricken person has no property to show. Using this understanding, therefore, most of the degree holders are poverty stricken, borrowing money to buy chicken and chips, pizza, buy expensive gadgets for show off and loaned cars to surprise their enemies.

The biggest excuse for getting paid such low amounts of money and having to sit and work for another person for 30 days in 30 years plus is THE DEGREE that one possesses and that’s all. This has made most of the degree holders very poor to poverty stricken and will die that way most likely. A degree holder does not know how to generate money unless that money is generated for the employer. A degree holder is so dependent on the salary that he can do anything to get a job but will not think of starting a business of his own to employ others. Employee is good but use it as a doorway into entrepreneurship. You are not good in business. Then build rental houses. 

1.   A degree holder is not prepared to sell chips but is very happy to work in Kenchic, Java etc for hungry lion.

2.   A degree holder is not prepared to sell popcorn in the street but is very happy to work at Safaricom/Airtel/Suppermarket outlet daily standing from 8:00am to 6:00Pm going home with 10,000,20,000 or 25,000 per month.

3.   A degree holder is not prepared to sell second hand clothes but is very happy to be employed by an Asian  selling same clothes.

4.   A degree holder is not prepared to make Kshs100,000 monthly doing his own business but is very happy to work at the till in a bank getting paid 40,000-70,000 while 50% of same cash go for Tax and Vat. 

5.   A degree holder is not prepared to start a company and grow it in two to three years but will spend three years searching for a job.

6.   A degree holder is not prepared to sell food to students but will be happy to be reporting to a boss with no qualifications as long as he is paid 30,000 for a salary.

7.   A degree holder is so eager to get out of this country and work in another country than spend time to develop his own country.

8.   A degree holder staying in a foreign land  is very keen to condemn Kenya but never contributing to the development of this country.

9.   A Kenya degree holder would rather sweep the streets of London or USA than start a business and make money in Kenya – others work in people’s homes doing some work you can't explain. 

10. A degree holder in Kenya will watch porn on his laptop but never to write a book using the same laptop to sell and make money.

11. A degree holder will blame the government for lack of jobs even after he was on government bursary for him to have his degree.

12. A degree holder will spent entire day betting rather than looking for proper way to grow their income.  

13. Kenya is blessed with people who have master’s degree and others are doctors in different technical fields such as IT and Engineering but all of them have failed to create a cartoon character and develop a movie from the same instead very happy to buy Tom and Jerry for their children thereby promoting America.

At the school I go to, there is a man that is of very humble background. He does not speak English but sells Coke, Fanta and Sprite at 35 each making a profit of around 10 on each drink. He also sells chips at 100 making a profit of 30 on each portion. Not less than 100 students buy chips and a drink every single day. This means he makes a profit of 40 for a drink and chips and a total profit of 4,000 per day…every single day. In ten days he makes a profit of 40,000, in twenty days 80,000 and in thirty days 120,000. Which means in a bad month he goes home with not less than 70,000.

The degree holder working in a bank at the till gets a salary of 50,000 every month.

Why are the degree holders poor?

Because they have decided to pride themselves in a degree and failed to think better than a man who does not have even a certificate to his name.

Degree holders spend their time liking articles on linkedIn and facebook but never have any care in the world to implement what they like. Poverty starts from the mind, a mind that just likes things but never to implement those things.

If you want to progress, throw away that degree and start thinking better than someone without a degree. Be prepared to get your hands dirty and work like an ox for your business. Your hard work will pay off.

Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be transmitted through the air?

What are coronaviruses, what is COVID-19 and how is it related to SARS?

What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans.  In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

Is COVID-19 the same as SARS?

No. The virus that causes COVID-19 and the one that caused the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2003 are related to each other genetically, but the diseases they cause are quite different. SARS was more deadly but much less infectious than COVID-19. There have been no outbreaks of SARS anywhere in the world since 2003.

Coronavirus Image

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are:

      fever

      tiredness

      dry cough

Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhoea.

These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don't feel unwell.

Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing.

Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness.

People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical attention.

How does COVID-19 spread?

      People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus?

      The disease can spread from person to a person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales.

      These droplets land on objects and surfaces around the person.

      Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

      People can also catch COVID-19 if they breathe in droplets from a person with COVID-19 who coughs out or exhales droplets. This is why it is important to stay more than 1 meter (3 feet) away from a person who is sick.

WHO is assessing ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share updated findings.  

Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be transmitted through the air?

Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air.

Can COVID-19 be caught from a person who has no symptoms?

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill. 

WHO is assessing ongoing research on the period of transmission of COVID-19 and will continue to share updated findings.   

Can I catch COVID-19 from feces, animals or pets?

Can I catch COVID-19 from the feces of someone with the disease?

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. WHO is assessing ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

Can humans become infected with the COVID-19 from an animal source?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in animals. Occasionally, people get infected with these viruses which may then spread to other people. For example, SARS-CoV was associated with civet cats and MERS-CoV is transmitted by dromedary camels. Possible animal sources of COVID-19 have not yet been confirmed.

To protect yourself, such as when visiting live animal markets, avoid direct contact with animals and surfaces in contact with animals. Ensure good food safety practices at all times. Handle raw meat, milk or animal organs with care to avoid contamination of uncooked foods and avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products.

Can I catch COVID-19 from my pet?

There is no evidence that a dog, cat or any pet can transmit COVID-19. COVID-19 is mainly spread through droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. To protect yourself clean your hands frequently and thoroughly.

Can I catch COVID-19 from infected surfaces or packages from infected areas?

How long does the virus survive on surfaces?

It is not certain how long the virus that causes COVID-19 survives on surfaces, but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses. Studies suggest that coronaviruses (including preliminary information on the COVID-19 virus) may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days. This may vary under different conditions (e.g. type of surface, temperature or humidity of the environment).

If you think a surface may be infected, clean it with simple disinfectant to kill the virus and protect yourself and others. Clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose.

Is it safe to receive a package from any area where COVID-19 has been reported?

Yes. The likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package that has been moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low.

What can I do to protect myself and prevent the spread of disease?

Protection measures for everyone

Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. Many countries around the world have seen cases of COVID-19 and several have seen outbreaks. Authorities in China and some other countries have succeeded in slowing or stopping their outbreaks. However, the situation is unpredictable so check regularly for the latest news.

You can reduce your chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some simple precautions:

Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.

Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.

Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Why?  When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth

Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.

Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.

Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.

Keep up to date on the latest COVID-19 hotspots (cities or local areas where COVID-19 is spreading widely). If possible, avoid traveling to places  – especially if you are an older person or have diabetes, heart or lung disease.

Why? You have a higher chance of catching COVID-19 in one of these areas.

What should I do if I have visited an area where COVID-19 is spreading?

If you have recently visited (past 14 days) areas where COVID-19 is spreading follow the guidance outlined in question 15. (What can I do to protect myself and prevent the spread of disease?) and do the following:

Self-isolate by staying at home if you begin to feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache, low grade fever (37.3°C or above) and slight runny nose, until you recover.

If it is essential for you to have someone bring you supplies or to go out, e.g. to buy food, then wear a mask to avoid infecting other people.

Why? Avoiding contact with others and visits to medical facilities will allow these facilities to operate more effectively and help protect you and others from possible COVID-19 and other viruses.

If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. Call in advance and tell your provider of any recent travel or contact with travelers.

Why? Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.

What are the treatment options for COVID-19 (including drugs, vaccines, therapies)?

Are antibiotics effective in preventing or treating COVID-19?

No. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, they only work on bacterial infections. COVID-19 is caused by a virus, so antibiotics do not work. Antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment of COVID-19. They should only be used as directed by a physician to treat a bacterial infection.

Are there any medicines or therapies that can prevent or cure COVID-19?

While some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of COVID-19, there is no evidence that current medicine can prevent or cure the disease. WHO does not recommend self-medication with any medicines, including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for COVID-19. However, there are several ongoing clinical trials that include both western and traditional medicines. WHO will continue to provide updated information as soon as clinical findings are available.

Is there a vaccine, drug or treatment for COVID-19?

Not yet. To date, there is no vaccine and no specific antiviral medicine to prevent or treat COVID-2019. However, those affected should receive care to relieve symptoms. People with serious illness should be hospitalized. Most patients recover thanks to supportive care.

Possible vaccines and some specific drug treatments are under investigation. They are being tested through clinical trials. WHO is coordinating efforts to develop vaccines and medicines to prevent and treat COVID-19.

The most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to frequently clean your hands, cover your cough with the bend of elbow or tissue, and maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from people who are coughing or sneezing.

Should I wear a mask to protect myself?

Only wear a mask if you are ill with COVID-19 symptoms (especially coughing) or looking after someone who may have COVID-19. Disposable face mask can only be used once. If you are not ill or looking after someone who is ill then you are wasting a mask. There is a world-wide shortage of masks, so WHO urges people to use masks wisely.

WHO advises rational use of medical masks to avoid unnecessary wastage of precious resources and mis-use of masks.

The most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to frequently clean your hands, cover your cough with the bend of elbow or tissue and maintain a distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from people who are coughing or sneezing.

How to put on, use, take off and dispose of a mask?

1. Remember, a mask should only be used by health workers, care takers, and individuals with respiratory symptoms, such as fever and cough.

2. Before touching the mask, clean hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water

3. Take the mask and inspect it for tears or holes.

4. Orient which side is the top side (where the metal strip is).

5. Ensure the proper side of the mask faces outwards (the coloured side).

6. Place the mask to your face. Pinch the metal strip or stiff edge of the mask so it moulds to the shape of your nose.

7. Pull down the mask’s bottom so it covers your mouth and your chin.

8. After use, take off the mask; remove the elastic loops from behind the ears while keeping the mask away from your face and clothes, to avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces of the mask.

9. Discard the mask in a closed bin immediately after use.

10. Perform hand hygiene after touching or discarding the mask – Use alcohol-based hand rub or, if visibly soiled, wash your hands with soap and water.

Is there anything I should not do?

The following measures ARE NOT effective against COVID-19 and can be harmful:

      Smoking

      Wearing multiple masks

      Taking antibiotics

In any case, if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care early to reduce the risk of developing a more severe infection and be sure to share your recent travel history with your health care provider.

How do I cope with stress during COVID-19?

It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talking to people you trust can help. Contact your friends and family.

If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy lifestyle - including proper diet, sleep, exercise and social contacts with loved ones at home and by email and phone with other family and friends.

Don’t use smoking, alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counsellor. Have a plan, where to go to and how to seek help for physical and mental health needs if required.

Get the facts. Gather information that will help you accurately determine your risk so that you can take reasonable precautions. Find a credible source you can trust such as WHO website or, a local or state public health agency.

Limit worry and agitation by lessening the time you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that you perceive as upsetting.

Draw on skills you have used in the past that have helped you to manage previous life’s adversities and use those skills to help you manage your emotions during the challenging time of this outbreak.

How do I help children cope with stress during COVID-19?

Children may respond to stress in different ways such as being more clingy, anxious, withdrawing, angry or agitated, bedwetting etc. Respond to your child’s reactions in a supportive way, listen to their concerns and give them extra love and attention.

Children need adults’ love and attention during difficult times. Give them extra time and attention. Remember to listen to your children, speak kindly and reassure them. If possible, make opportunities for the child to play and relax.

Try and keep children close to their parents and family and avoid separating children and their caregivers to the extent possible. If separation occurs (e.g. hospitalization) ensure regular contact (e.g. via phone) and re-assurance.

Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible, or help create new ones in a new environment, including school/learning as well as time for safely playing and relaxing.

Provide facts about what has happened, explain what is going on now and give them clear information about how to reduce their risk of being infected by the disease in words that they can understand depending on their age. This also includes providing information about what could happen in a re-assuring way (e.g. a family member and/or the child may start not feeling well and may have to go to the hospital for some time so doctors can help them feel better).

Are smokers and tobacco users at higher risk of getting COVID-19?

Smoking can increase your chances of getting COVID-19 because bringing your hands to your mouth can transfer the virus into your body. Smoking also impairs lung function, which may increase your risk of getting a severe case of COVID-19.

Quit today to reduce these risks and start living a healthier life.

Quick tips to curb your cravings: 

Delay: Delay as long as you can before giving in to your urge.

Deep breathing: Take 10 deep breaths to relax from within until the urge passes.

Drink water: Drinking water is a healthy alternative to sticking a cigarette in your mouth.

Do something else to distract yourself: Take a shower, read, go for a walk, listen to music!

What are some parenting tips during COVID-19?

Home with the kids? Try taking 20 minutes a day doing something that they choose – play a game or read with them. Quality time will make them feel safe and loved. 

Praise is powerful. Try praising your child or teenager for something they have done well.  They may not show their appreciation, but you’ll see them doing that good thing again.

Routine up! A structured day helps kids feel secure and makes it easier to manage them. Try making a timetable, with schoolwork, games, free time, exercise, and handwashing. 

Kids at home driving you crazy? Feeling like you are going to scream? Give yourself a 1-minute pause. Breathe in and out five times. Then respond.

Crowded house? Stressed out? Share your feelings. Take a break. Looking after kids 24-7 during COVID-19 isn’t easy. Remind yourself of what you did well today. Think about the good moments.

Take care of yourself so you can take care of your children.