Consider This from NPR Why Our Brains Struggle To Make Sense Of COVID-19 Risks
Nov 30, 2020
Millions traveled for Thanksgiving despite warnings. Dr. Deborah Birx advises anyone who did to assume infection and test. The challenge of understanding COVID-19 as an invisible threat is explored. Neuroscientist Dr. Gaurav Suri suggests habits can help simplify risk management. Emergency room doctor Leana Wen discusses the temptations of risky tradeoffs and how to 'budget' personal risks effectively. Practical strategies for decision-making and creating a family risk budget are highlighted to balance safety with normal activities.
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Selective Caution
- Dr. Leana Wen describes a patient who was extremely cautious in most situations.
- However, the patient trusted neighbors and friends, inviting them in without precautions.
Conflicting Brain Systems
- Gaurav Suri explains that our brains have conflicting decision-making systems.
- One system recognizes familiar cues and encourages normal behavior, while a slower system processes the real danger, leading to risky choices.
Managing COVID-19 Fatigue
- Avoid doomscrolling but stay informed to keep your goal-directed system active.
- Make masks readily available and tell your social network about your COVID-19 precautions.