6) Ensuring Best Writing Practices (OUTDATED)
After understanding the general requirements to keep in mind whilst submitting your content articles for 7 Cups publication, this discussion highlights some general writing tips to keep in mind when writing content that relates to mental health.
Things to Do:
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Make sure the article is empathetic, kind, helpful & informative (it fulfills the reader who found it), empowering. Replace mental “illness” or “disease” with “condition” or “issue” and soften any other mental health stigma language that might pop up. This helps ensure that your tone is supportive.
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Think of story ideas that will be sharable in social media
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Be concise
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Be conversational and accessible in your writing
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Back up statements with research or facts if applicable (cite sources) - try to confirm facts by ensuring at least 2 different sources mentioning them.
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Include expert quotes and insights -- you can reach out to a psychologist or expert about your story and offer a quote and link to their practice for the collaboration. Make sure their title/expertise is attributed in the article
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Be thorough, don’t gloss over specifics
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Give the reader empathy and hope
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Put yourself in the reader’s shoes: ask yourself what they need out of reading your piece and then deliver that
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Try to combine personal experiences with expert insight to strengthen your piece.
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Consider including friends and family members of people impacted by your topic in your audience.
For more tips on reporting mental health conditions and choosing words carefully, read the American Psychiatric Association’s article here
Other Tips:
The following are general guidelines to help find facts, help link things with 7 Cups as well as outreaching tips for personal stories and expert insight:
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Always try to hyperlink some of your main sources.
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Use authentic reporting websites such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization, or American Psychological Association, etc. for facts and up-to-date statistics. (Can be hyperlinked as mentioned above)
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Use Google Scholar to search for relevant research work. Abstracts usually summarize research findings.
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When outlining your article, consider asking yourself which information and what type of information can be added as a priority. For example, an article about mental health during the pandemic would likely report authentic global statistics and could use published research information.
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When reviewing other resources that cover your topic or something close to it, always ask yourself what can help enhance that available content. How can you ensure you are providing a unique take on the topic? Consider thinking about what is missing that could be worth mentioning.
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7 Cups has lots of free services, including available self-help guides, subcommunities with forums, and other areas - generally, editorial assistants at 7 Cups help backlink to these resources, but you are welcome to directly mention them if it applies, for instance, mentioning how Sharing Circles can help users cope with loneliness or the lack of support in their daily lives.
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Outreaching for both personal or expert quotes can be done via social media, contact forms of blog posts, or even email considering which information is available. You are welcome to PM @SoulfullyAButterfly if you think a 7 Cups Expert can help provide you the quote or required insight.
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When outreaching for personal stories, introduce yourself and 7 Cups and explain your article topic briefly, and why you think their personal experience could help. Share how you can back-link (link back) to the person’s blog or other resources if they would like that in return for sharing their quote. Ensure that you ask them if they would like their name to be disclosed, or if they would like a pseudonym. Finally, let them know you will share the final published version so they can also share it with their acquaintances.
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When requiring an expert quote, use the same procedure discussed, but consider asking for the expert’s availability. Mention how the expert’s work can aid your write-up and any questions you have. Ask for the expert’s professional practice page link and if they are interested, mention how they can have a published expert profile at 7 Cups (you can CC ayesha@7cups.com if needed).
Things To Avoid:
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The overuse of cliches or corny language
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Making it overly formal or using references most wouldn’t understand
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Using extraneous words/phrases. For example, you don’t have to write, “it’s important to…” If you’re writing it, the reader will assume it’s important. Unless, of course, it really is a surprise that this piece of advice is important - in which case say that
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Forgetting to explain the “why”
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Repeating the same word or phrase often (unless intentional, i.e. in an article about a mantra you might repeat the mantra several times)
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Overusing exclamation points
Activity
Using the information you just learned, write a paragraph (minimum of 100 words) for the article topic “Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic” - as this is only a paragraph and NOT the complete article, state a brief heading which will inform the reader whether your paragraph is about a general introduction or something more specific. Ensure your paragraph contains facts. Please note that you are to mention your sources too, as well as a link to at least one source within the paragraph.
Bonus: Consider using previous discussions to research and use keywords.
Additionally, reply to at least one other student and highlight the strengths of their work as well as areas for improvement.
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This post is brought to you by the Content Development and Marketing Program, find out more information about the program here
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
With social distancing and all the business’s closing due to the unpredictable effect of covid, people have been left with minimal options to meet social needs. The recommended response to the pandemic from The Center of Disease, Control and prevention has left people in long term isolation. Vulnerable members of the community have found themselves struggling with intense loneliness. “Based on Mental Health America’s screening data, loneliness/isolation is the number one thing contributing to feelings of depression or anxiety right now – over 72% of respondents said it was one of their top 3 stressors.” People are feeling stranded from family members, medical professionals, and work associates, and friends. To combat loneliness many have turned to social media and instant chat apps to stay connected. However, relying solely on the internet may not be enough. Mental health America, says all the restraints in place may have made family members and friends busier, because of this it is important to use reminders.
Perception can be altered due to mood and feelings can easily be hurt when communication is slow. Making assumptions can become very easy. The only way to find out the answer is to ask and keep communication open.
2. Keep an open mind. Everyone is struggling with the stress of the pandemic and maybe too overwhelmed to support anyone at the moment.
3. If you still find yourself struggling you can access a Therapist or a free volunteer listeners here on https://www.7cups.com/11115582. The volunteers on cups are available 24/7 and willing to be that connection during tough times. You can connect to a professional on the site for a cost, they will be happy to arrange their availability based on your needs.
Engaging in new interests or hobbies can help distract from the time spent indoors. Whether you like to cook, crochet, read, paint, play an instrument, there are an unlimited number of activities you can explore and include immediate family members in. The Smithsonian, States “That Stay-at-home orders have inspired those with ample free time to pick up hands-on Projects.” I wish you all the best in coming to terms with feeling lonely.
COVID-19 and Loneliness: When It Seems Like No One Cares | Mental Health America
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | CDC
Arts and Crafts Are Experiencing Surge in Popularity Amid COVID-19 | Smithsonian
@coolvibes
ithink it is well writes and to the point.
@Heartsandrosesandpaws Thank you soo much paws.
@coolvibes
Good job!
Recommendation: Just align the text in a way that looks harmonious.
@coolvibes
i have red your paragraph , i think you are talented ; bornd to be writer.
the strengths
_ you give all useful information about the topic , when i red your paraghraph i got all anwsers i need to know
_ i think you suggest many realistic solotions ; given that people just setting in their homes for long time ; cant communicate or go to work
areas to improve
non _ i think you done all perfectly
thanks for sharing your work with us , you inspire me to do mine
Coping with Loneliness during the COVID19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, social distancing became necessary to avoid the spread of the disease. This protective measure turned out to be a necessary evil, as it has led to feelings of isolation and loneliness among many people. Researchers are still questioning the link between the increased feelings of loneliness and the pandemic.¹ Evidentally reported loneliness amongst individuals has seen an increase during the pandemic.² These feelings of loneliness can be combated through online video calls, social groups on the internet and interactive platforms such as 7Cups. If you are struggling with feelings of loneliness it is advised to reach out to loved ones through online means regularly. Websites such as 7Cups also provide interactive one-on-one sessions with listeners trained to listen and offer support to you at any time.
¹ https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2022/05/covid-19-increase-loneliness
² https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2022/05/covid-19-increase-loneliness
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10218178/#:~:text=Consistent%20with%20past%20research%20%5B13,the%20pandemic%20than%20before%20it.
@unassumingEyes
well written to the point
@unassumingEyes
Great job on your answer here.
Reply to at least one other student and highlight the strengths of their work as well as areas for improvement.
"Coping with Loneliness during the COVID19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 Pandemic, social distancing became necessary to avoid the spread of the disease. This protective measure turned out to be a necessary evil, as it has led to feelings of isolation and loneliness among many people. Researchers are still questioning the link between the increased feelings of loneliness and the pandemic.¹ Evidentally reported loneliness amongst individuals has seen an increase during the pandemic.² These feelings of loneliness can be combated through online video calls, social groups on the internet and interactive platforms such as 7Cups. If you are struggling with feelings of loneliness it is advised to reach out to loved ones through online means regularly. Websites such as 7Cups also provide interactive one-on-one sessions with listeners trained to listen and offer support to you at any time. " -@unassumingEyes
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@unassumingEyes, for me citing your sources immediately out. Great job in ensuring that your sources were all cited. I admired the way you provided people with ways to cope during the pandemic. Since the pandemic was in the past, I felt like the paragraph should have been written in the past tense. I also felt maybe you could have explored or researched the ways in which people coped and shared that with us. I loved reading your paragraph. I found it to be informative to someone who would have been seeking help during the pandemic. Excellent job! My well wishes to you! - PetiteSouris' response.
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Using the information you just learned, write a paragraph (minimum of 100 words) for the article topic “Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic” - as this is only a paragraph and NOT the complete article, state a brief heading which will inform the reader whether your paragraph is about a general introduction or something more specific. Ensure your paragraph contains facts. Please note that you are to mention your sources too, as well as a link to at least one source within the paragraph.
Article Topic: Coping with Loneliness During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Brief Heading: Everyone Included and Everyone Copes
According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, on March 11th 2020 the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a pandemic. The outbreak of the infectious disease, Covid-19, caused one of the deadliest pandemics: Covid-19 claimed seven million deaths worldwide. The pandemic had an effect on all members of a population, and was detrimental to people living in poverty, the elderly, people with disabilities, youth, and those with mental health illnesses. According to the National Institute of Health coping mechanisms are essential tools, for individuals with stresses and challenges of life, specifically during times of hardship such as a global pandemic. In this article we will explore coping mechanisms for loneliness which were implemented by at risk populations during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Source
1.National Foundation for Infectious Disease. https://www.nfid.org/infectious-diseases/covid-19/.
2. Rana I.A., Bhatti S.S., Aslam A.B., Jamshed A., Ahmad J., Shah A.A. COVID-19 risk perception and coping mechanisms: Does gender make a difference? Int. J. Disaster Risk Reduct. 2021;55:1020 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33777688/
♡
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Effects of Isolation During the Pandemic
The effects of pandemic-related isolation have been felt in every corner of society. It may take the form of exacerbated symptoms in some patients or freshly developing signs of mental illness in others. Medically, loneliness has been linked to heart disease and stroke.2 It is also linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, domestic abuse, and suicide.3
Sources: https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/covid-19-loneliness
@SoulfullyAButterfly
Using the information you just learned, write a paragraph (minimum of 100 words) for the article topic “Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic” - as this is only a paragraph and NOT the complete article, state a brief heading which will inform the reader whether your paragraph is about a general introduction or something more specific. Ensure your paragraph contains facts. Please note that you are to mention your sources too, as well as a link to at least one source within the paragraph.
dealing with loneliness during the pandemic
loneliness can affect adult life occasionally and bring some annoying feelings, given to a 2021 study published in Lancet Psychiatry found associations between loneliness and depressive symptoms in a group of adults 50 years old and older , Research shows that the areas of the brain that deal with social exclusion are the same areas that process physical pain*.
Loneliness it has real risk to the mental health and physical well being as well ; many people they think maybe it is the right time to organize my desk through the panidmic time , or do some tasks that i put it away , watch a movie , read a book all those suggestions looks good but what about social communication there is my list for you
_You can try online volunteering it s safe and help you to brook your isolation , you can find may websites as 7cups , where people sharing kindness and emotional support and increase awareness about mental health.
_ join a online book club , I found many where members meeting and discussing books , it is fun and you will gain information in several topics .
_ subscribe in online class to learn something new .
*How to Cope With Loneliness ; By Elizabeth Scott, PhD ; website url How to Cope With Loneliness: 9 Strategies to Try (verywellmind.com)
@SoulfullyAButterfly
“Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
### The Role of Technology in Combating Loneliness
During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology has emerged as a vital tool in combating loneliness. With social distancing measures in place, many have turned to video calls, social media, and online communities to maintain connections. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 53% of Americans have reported that the internet has been essential during the pandemic (Source: [Pew Research Center](https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2020/04/30/53-of-americans-say-the-internet-has-been-essential-during-the-covid-19-outbreak/)). Virtual gatherings through platforms like Zoom and FaceTime enable people to stay in touch with family and friends, reducing feelings of isolation. As Dr. Vivek Murthy, the U.S. Surgeon General, stated, "Human connection is essential to our well-being, and technology can help us maintain it even when we are physically apart." Embracing these digital tools can provide a lifeline, offering emotional support and a sense of community in these challenging times.
@Gargi07 very well written and to the point.
@SoulfullyAButterfly coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Coping with loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant challenge for many, but there are strategies to help manage these feelings. Staying connected with friends and family through virtual means, such as video calls, social media, and messaging apps, can help maintain a sense of community and support. Engaging in new hobbies or revisiting old ones can provide a meaningful distraction and a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, establishing a daily routine that includes physical activity, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices can enhance mental well-being. It's also important to reach out for professional support if feelings of loneliness become overwhelming. Remember, this period of isolation is temporary, and taking proactive steps to care for your mental health can make a significant difference.
More information can be found here: https://mhanational.org/covid-19-and-loneliness-when-it-seems-no-one-cares
@ScorpiaD
You have given strategies to cope with the feelinsg of loneliness very nicely.
However, you could have given reference to 7 cups for the seeking therapy parts and could have made your paragraph more approachable by appropriate sub heading and spacings in the paragraph because its the article which is more presentable that the readers are keen to read.
Otherwise, it was very informative. Great work!
@SoulfullyAButterfly
"Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic"
How to break the cycle of Lonliness
A study ( https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0265900 ) on lonliness during the COVID - 19 depicted that social lonliness can lead to emotional lonliness as well especially during the COVID protocol phase where social distancing and no physical contact where needed.
Lonliness is a symptom and a predictor of depression and goes on in a cycle. Here's how you can break the cycle of lonliness :
1. Make connections : Making connections means to form real life relationships. Making friends on social media accounts doesn't mean having them stand by you. Real life connections are the ones that go a long way.
2. Adjust your lifestyle : Excercising regularly, having a good diet, enagaging in a minfulness activities can help in improving and shielding against both the mental health as well as physical health. These changes can be as little as limiting the caffeine intakes.
3. Get a pet : Many studies on keeping a pet says that, pet helps in lowering anxiety, stress and lonliness. Dogs are often said to be humans best friends. Having a pet can help in reducing the severity of the symptoms of loneliness. Animal therapy is more common in the recent times.
4. Seek help : There is always an option to seek a professional help. There are many platforms available online to help you get therapy from the comfort of your home. 7cups ( https://www.7cups.com/member/BecomeMember.php )is one such platform where you can find peer supports, listener, therapists and forum supports and so much more.
Last but not the least #prioritizeyourmentalhealth because #mentalhealthmatters !
@Happysouled I like these recommendations! Putting them in a list makes it easier to navigate the text. Well done!
Loneliness became a significant mental health issue during the COVID-19 pandemic as social distancing measures isolated individuals from their communities. According to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 40% of U.S. adults reported struggling with mental health issues, including feelings of loneliness, due to the pandemic's impact. Social isolation, compounded by the fear of infection and uncertainty about the future, led to increased anxiety and depression. To cope with this loneliness, experts suggest maintaining virtual connections and engaging in online communities like those offered by 7 Cups, which provide peer support and sharing circles to help individuals manage their feelings and find comfort during these trying times.
@Mellietronx this was a very good paragraph you covered lots of the possible keywords, brought it back to 7cups and made it compassionate, one thing i would work on is including 2 sources and sending a direct link to one of them
@Mellietronx I like your paragraph, it contains a lot of information without feeling overwhelming or overloaded. It also addresses the issue of loneliness but ends on a positive note of hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. One suggestion to improve it, would be to include a link to the CDC, specifically the report you referred to. Its a good read, thank you
Paragraph on Coping with Loneliness During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Loneliness and Self-isolation was amongst the biggest mental health issues related to the global pandemic. Between Quarantine and social distancing daily social activities were limited to zoom, phone calls or social media. Due to the overuse of virtual connections digital fatigue was experienced by many. This loneliness epidemic led to a 25% increase of people experiencing depression and depressive symptoms in accordance to an article written by (who.int). With an increase in isolation and depression common coping skills may include: creative outlets including art and music, volunteering, meditation, positive thinking, journaling, and gratitude practice to name a few options. Other options include virtual connections with loved ones and friends and engaging in digital communities like 7cups. 7cups offers free peer support through anonymous non-judgmental listening, as well as the opportunity to meet others and create a more developed support system Psychology Today.
Works Cited
7 Tips for Handling Isolation During the Pandemic | Psychology Today
COVID-19 pandemic triggers 25% increase in prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide (who.int)
@thatoneguyfriend1121 I like that you cite your source and give an accurate quantitative statistic, however, i think the heading should be improved and more specific