@TideisTurning wrote:
Next Question: In terms of advocating for what’s right for us, how can we establish covid-related boundaries around situations with others when formal restrictions – like mask mandates - are disappearing? @EliseSunflower
Ah, boundaries! A tricky topic.
At the time of this discussion, there are very few COVID-related policies restrictions in place, compared to what was in place in 2020 and 2021. For many people, life feels normal again. Others might feel that their very real health concerns are being minimised or ignored.
As I mentioned before, everyone will have their own degree of social interaction, and COVID-risk reduction strategies, that works for them. That means there may be clashes in terms of what you, and others, feel comfortable with.
It’s okay to say no to situations that make you uncomfortable. Self-advocacy is such an important skill to have! Supportive people will respect each other's wishes.
But it’s also important to be mindful of others’ wishes and levels of comfort, too – whether they are more, or less, comfortable than you.
Sometimes that might mean negotiating something that everyone is comfortable with. Meeting in the middle. In other situations, one person might have to be firm. For example, if someone is immunocompromised, they will need to establish clearer boundaries around what they are willing to do, and ask for reasonable adjustments. No one should expect people to take risks with their health, or the health of their loved ones.
