The high numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths, economic difficulties, uncertainty about the future, as well as the approaches needed to contain the spread of the virus are all playing critical roles in the short and long-term social and psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Inequities based on race and socioeconomic status influence the rates of infection and deaths and steps that are needed to achieve recovery. This commentary focuses on similarities and differences after other disasters and efforts being initiated to provide support and recovery. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).