Over the past year terms such as social distancing, masks and staying safe have been ingrained in our minds. Whether we agreed with following these guidelines or not, it was important everyone did their part to help. Following social mandates is not something we are accustomed to in our free society and at times it was overwhelming and confusing. Now it seems just as everyone was beginning to get used to the routine of wearing a mask and maintaining our distance these guidelines have shifted again. This significant shift can evoke feelings of anxiety and confusion. It is in that spirit that we decided to focus this month’s Health Notes by breaking down the recent updates and perhaps ease anxiety.
On May 28, 2021 the mandate to wear masks was lifted for fully vaccinated individuals for indoor public places. This exciting news that we may finally get back to “normal” comes with lots of questions about the feasibility of keeping people safe. You may be tired of hearing “data drives decisions” yet that is what points to the lifting of mask and social distancing mandates. Since December 2020, we are at a point where a significant enough portion of the population has been vaccinated that disease infection and hospitalization rates have dropped significantly. This data tells us that individuals who are fully vaccinated are at a lower risk of contracting and spreading the virus. As a result, fully vaccinated individuals are able to gather together without masks.
Those who are fully vaccinated may choose to continue to wear a mask if they prefer. However, their vaccinated status means they have protection from anyone who could potentially spread the virus. It also means that vaccinated individuals cannot spread the virus to others should they come in contact with it. It is for these reasons that new guidelines recommend that vaccinated people may remove their masks and be less fearful of standing within 6 feet of someone else. For those that have not been able to procure the vaccine yet or have chosen not to receive the vaccine it is still recommended to wear a mask and keep their social distance.
The new guidelines have extended to lift limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings. This means capacity limits are unnecessary regardless of where the event is to take place. Here in New Jersey, events such as concerts, political and religious functions, no longer are limited to a certain capacity number. Our churches are now able to lift the social distancing and capacity mandates and we can now hold religious ceremonies that are pivotal to us as practicing Catholics.
While this is all refreshing to hear as it signifies how far we have come in the past year, it can cause mixed emotions. If you find yourself feeling anxious as you begin entering businesses and our churches where barriers and masks are no longer mandated consider taking a moment to pause. Anything new is different and, particularly after this tumultuous year, it’s extremely important to allow ourselves to feel these emotions and acknowledge that they exist.
Fear is an emotion that, if disregarded, can consume us. It is our job to be mindful when we feel this way to pause and reflect on the cause of that anxiety. Is it because we haven’t seen our friends smiles in so long that we are leery of them now? Is it because we don’t know if the person beside us in line at the market is vaccinated and it makes us nervous? All of these are valid concerns however, one way we could all react is with kindness. Be kind to yourself, your fellow parishioners, your friends and yes, even the strangers in the market.
The reality is everyone is learning how to move forward safely. Everyone wants to stay healthy and keep their loved ones safe and healthy. There are countless examples in the Bible where we are reminded to share our fears, stress and anxiety with our God who loves us and will help guide us. Let us have faith and trust in the Lord that we are ready to move forward. Remember, we are not forced to take off our mask and stop social distancing. If there are places you are not ready to be mask free or stand close to others, then ease yourself into it. No one wants you to feel more anxious or stressed. While a lot of restrictions have been removed, it is best to continue to practice good hand washing and sanitizing and to stay home if you aren’t feeling well.
We hope you found this article helpful and encourage you to reach out to us at VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services (1-888-26VITALity or 1-888-268-4825), if you have any questions or concerns for yourself or others. Until next time, stay healthy, safe and well.
