Expanded Guidelines for Communicating About COVID-19 and Precautions

This guidance complements the shor t guidance document for communication with friends and family, as well as guidelines for professional conversations at the workplace, contractor communication, and the appendices by providing a deeper framework for crafting thoughtful communication strategies.

Introduction

Is communicating with family and friends about COVID-19 a challenge? Many people find these conversations difficult because they involve sensitive topics, such as precautions or changes in behavior. These guidelines are here to help you navigate these discussions and find ways to talk about health and safety together.

The holiday season, with its gatherings and celebrations, offers an important opportunity to apply these ideas. Whether you’re discussing plans for special occasions or navigating everyday interactions, these conversations can strengthen relationships and encourage thoughtful dialogue about staying healthy.

1. Opening the Conversation

Good communication begins with listening and building a foundation of mutual respect. Start with these strategies:

Ask Open-Ended Questions

Begin with neutral, general questions to create a comfortable space:
- “What’s been on your mind lately?”
- “How’s life been treating you recently?”
After listening, share your own thoughts to invite a mutual dialogue:
- “I’ve been thinking about how everyone has different ways of staying healthy, and I’d love to hear your take.”
Gradually invite their perspective on health-related topics:
- “With so many people getting sick recently, what do you think we can do to reduce the chances of getting sick?”

Share Relatable and Practical Ideas

When it’s your turn to share, focus on creating a connection by offering relatable insights or personal reflections:

Start with General Examples:
- “People have told me that small changes, like standing up for a few minutes each hour or drinking more water, can make a big difference.”
- “Some people say that just a few minutes of stretching each day can help reduce stiffness—it’s amazing how little habits like that add up.”
Transition to Broader Health Topics:
- “Many people are focusing on diet, exercise, and other healthy habits—it’s interesting to think about what else we can do to stay healthy.”
- “It seems like everyone knows someone who’s been sick lately—it’s led many to think about how we can create healthier environments.”
Introduce Airborne Illnesses and COVID Gently:
- “I’ve been wondering how we can make shared spaces healthier—what do you think might help gatherings feel safer?”
- “Simple steps, like improving airflow or opening a window, can make shared spaces healthier for everyone.”

Respect Autonomy and Focus on Connection

Not every conversation will lead to agreement, and that’s okay. Ending on a positive and open note helps maintain relationships and leaves the door open for future dialogue:

Recognize When to Pause:
Look for signs that someone might be uncomfortable or disengaged, like a change in tone, avoiding eye contact, or giving short answers:
- Signs to look for:
  - Short or dismissive responses.
  - Avoidance of eye contact or turning away.
  - Defensive or abrupt changes in tone.
- Example response:
  - “It seems like this might not be the best time to dive into this. I really appreciate you listening, though, and I’d love to talk more another time if you’re open to it.”
Be Aware of Your Own Feelings:
If you notice the conversation becoming tense or feel yourself getting frustrated, it might be a good time to pause and reflect.
Express Gratitude for the Conversation:
- “I really appreciate having this chance to talk with you.”
- “This was helpful—I’d love to talk more sometime.”
- “Thanks for sharing your perspective—it means a lot to me.”

For more tips on effective communication, see the Appendices.

2. Shared Actions: Agreement Under Constraints

Navigating shared actions requires respecting individual boundaries while exploring practical solutions. This section incorporates the five pillars of prevention and strategies for constructive negotiation.

Understand Constraints and Prioritize Safety

Define Non-Negotiables:
- Reflect on what you’re willing to do and what you can’t compromise on:
  - Key outcomes (e.g., minimizing health risks, preserving relationships).
  - Specific boundaries (e.g., requiring masks, testing, or HEPA filters).
- State Boundaries Clearly
  - Direct Approach: “I’m not comfortable with that—it feels too risky for me.”
  - Softer Alternative: “That feels outside of my comfort zone—I’d like to explore another way.”
- When setting boundaries:
  - Pair them with a brief explanation to keep the dialogue open.
  - Emphasize respect for others’ choices while maintaining your limits.
  - Example: “I know we’re all navigating this differently, but I’d need testing to feel safe joining the gathering. Is that something we could consider?”
Acknowledge Power Dynamics:
Recognize the influence of roles or circumstances:
- Hosts should ensure suggestions don’t feel like commands.
Incorporate the Five Pillars of Prevention:
The following prevention strategies provide a foundation for a safer environment. Present these strategies as areas for discussion, to identify what is feasible and practical for the group:
- Masks: High-quality masks (e.g., N95s).
- Clean Air: Ventilation and HEPA filtration.
- Testing: Rapid or PCR tests before gatherings.
- Avoiding In-Person Meetings: Virtual or hybrid options.
- Vaccination: Up-to-date vaccinations as part of a comprehensive prevention strategy.

Collaborate on Options

Explore Alternatives with Levels of Safety:
Tailor strategies to meet comfort levels while maintaining safety goals:
- Masks: Everyone wears N95s vs. masking in specific areas.
- Clean Air: Open windows vs. using HEPA filters.
- Testing: Rapid tests vs. PCR or isolation periods.
Clarify Feasibility:
Discuss what’s practical given the group’s needs and resources.
Acknowledge When Agreement Isn’t Possible:
When agreement isn’t possible, acknowledge differences and consider alternative ways to connect safely, such as virtual interactions or outdoor gatherings.

Decide When to Pause or Disengage

Acknowledge Impasses as Constructive:
Even without a solution, the discussion can build mutual understanding and pave the way for future conversations.
- “It’s okay if we don’t come to a solution today. Talking about it is still an important step.”
Honor the Option to Walk Away:
If reflection causes discomfort, allow for reevaluation. Walking away respectfully ensures that the relationship remains intact and keeps the door open for future discussions.
- “I’ve been thinking more about our plans, and I feel like it might not be the best time for me to join after all. I hope you understand.”

Closing Statement

Navigating conversations about COVID-19 precautions is rarely simple, but focusing on understanding, mutual respect, and shared goals can make a difference. By continuing to approach these conversations with care, we can strengthen relationships, find common ground, and meet future challenges together.