All of our lives and livelihoods have been driven into chaos during this world wide covid 19 pandemic. With so much uncertainty and daily doses of fear, panic and anxiety it’s very difficult to maintain a positive mental outlook.
This covid 19 pandemic of today effects our lives in many ways other than contracting the disease itself. Normally our lives are filled with routines that provide us predictability and consistency. The world we have all been suddenly and unexpectedly cast into has taken that and more out of our current daily life. Each day now is filled with a sense uncertainty and doom.
What we are all going through today is something that we have never experienced in our lifetime. Consequently we have never had an opportunity to develop ways to psychology cope with the unusual circumstances that we are all confronted with at present. As we go through this it’s important to remember that it is the situation we all find ourselves in that is abnormal and not ourselves
During this time of crisis it’s important to eat a proper diet, exercise and get proper amounts of sleep. Remember it’s the situation that’s abnormal not you. Given the circumstances feelings of panic, anxiety and sadness are all normal responses to this abnormal situation we are all in.
Sometimes when we fight these out of control feelings we only end up fueling them. It’s important to remember the paradox of control. The more you try to control the more out of control you will feel. So rather than try to control the feelings give yourself permission to experience them and let go of them.
If you’re feeling panicked our anxiousness you have probably triggered the body’s flight or fight response. This is the mind and bodies response to danger and it releases chemicals in the body to help fight or flee. Rather than fight these feelings try engaging yourself in some aerobic activity like running, walking, swimming, etc.
We will all get through together. Keep your faith. Talk with your minister, consult your Doctor and ask for a referral to a mental health specialist that can help guide you through this difficult time.
transcend 