The current challenges brought about by COVID-19 for people all around the globe are unparalleled and have caused fear, anxiety and uncertainty for so many of us.
We all go through this together and it is important to
understand that you are not alone in how you feel now, and that there are
practical and healthy ways to deal with these emotions. The COVID-19 pandemic
has created an unprecedented change and the need for a response from everyone
in the world.
Many of us worry about our loved ones and our livelihood,
and there is no right way to cope with what we are experiencing. Remember, no
matter how you feel there are others who feel the same. You are not alone. Here
are some people's voices struggling to cope during this time.
“Some days I'm okay, I'm doing my best to adjust. But
yesterday I couldn't stop crying. This all just seems so unfair and I feel so
angry that this is happening to us. I'm struggling to care for my kids and work
at the same time as a single mother, and I'm worried about my kids’ health. I
watch the news and it just seems so hopeless. I don't know how to keep it
together.” – Single Mother
“I feel so lost and sad. So much has changed. I used to have
dinner every week with my family, but now, I can't be in the same room with
them. I really miss them.” – Anonymous(A.)
“I'm missing out on my farewell and my graduation. I've
literally been looking forward to these things my whole life and I'm
heartbroken.” – Anonymous(P.)
“With everything going on now, I just can't stop my
thoughts, and physically, my chest hurts and I can't breathe. I get nauseous
thinking about what could happen to my family and my friends.” – Anonymous(S.)
“Before this happened, I used to worry all the time about
getting sick. Now, that worry has turned into absolute terror.
My heart races every time I have to go to the store or
someone visits me. What if I bring germs home with me? I can't stop washing my
hands.” – Anonymous(R.)
“Honestly, I feel like I'm more comfortable in times of
crisis, I'm not sure why I don't feel as upset as everyone else does right now.
My life wasn’t that happening to begin with, now it’s like everyone is in my
spot and I still don’t feel bad.” -
Anonymous
We've just heard some of the ways people are being affected
by the COVID-19 situation. Here are some things that are helpful in building
resilience during times of crisis and intense stress.
Now there is a lot of mess out of our control which can be
scary. By focusing on the things we can control, we can refuel and become more
grounded and able to focus and deal with all the things we cannot control.
One of the most important actions under your control is to
follow the CDC's guidelines to reduce your chances of being exposed or
spreading the virus to others.Use social support.
No one should go through this alone. There is absolutely no shame in talking about what you're going through with your friends and family, and it's important to be there for others, too. Video chat and phone calls are a great way to stay connected.
- Prioritize self-care.
Staying on a regular schedule, exercising, eating a healthy diet, keeping a sleep routine, and taking time to meditate or pray are all important, now more than ever.
· Be gentle with yourself.
During times like this, you will have good days and bad days. Your emotions are likely to increase at this point. Try not to compare your life with what you see on your friends' social media, there is always more behind the scenes.
· Helping others can bring joy and satisfaction.
Do what you can to
help others, even if it's as easy as lending an ear or making someone smile. Be
kind to the people around you, especially those who are still working to make
sure we have all we need.
If each day seems like an uphill battle, it may help to seek
professional support. To continue to help during this time of social distancing,
many mental health providers are using tele-mental health in their practice.
Comments
Post a Comment