The Covid-19 crisis has brought on a vast array of experiences and emotions for people. The common thread is grief, and one does not have to go through it alone. Those who are experiencing literal death are certainly in heartbreaking circumstances.
Everyone, however, is experiencing loss – loss of our way of life and loss of connection. For a great many this extends to loss of job, loss of income, loss of purpose, and loss of a sense of safety and control. Just as it is important to feel and acknowledge any shock, anger, and sadness that is felt when a loved one is lost, it is also important that people process those feelings the same way as they go through their experiences with grief in connection to covid-19.
One thing is for certain, it is not helpful to beat oneself up for not having it all together; for losing patience and being irritable with others; or, for making unhealthy choices about food and substance. It is important that people allow themselves to feel and process and then to make the effort to make the next choice healthy.
For many it is helpful to have a list of activities they can engage in when they are not sure what to do next. People are discovering old and new hobbies right now – crafts, art, music, board games, jigsaw puzzles, gardening, to name a few. This can help reduce the amount of screen time.
Extended amounts of screen time may negatively affect mood and should be avoided. It is important to get outdoors for physical and mental health, and should be made a priority. When weather does not allow for this, indoor workouts help to provide healthy movement and relief. These strategies can all be very effective to improve mood.
People often gain a sense of purpose and connection to community when they give to charity and help others in their struggles. Since isolation is such a large factor, reach out to others by phone, text, video chat, etc. on a regular basis. Some people are able to share their feelings with friends and family which is good. For those that aren’t, writing in a journal can be therapeutic.
The most helpful thing to do right now while living in isolation is to create a sense of structure. If one schedules time to exercise, shower, eat meals, etc. it prevents each minute, hour, and day from fading into the next.
The grief society is experiencing is normal and should be honored and addressed as such. This period will inevitably pass and be replaced by brighter days. In the meantime, it’s important that every person supports one another to overcome these struggles. Anyone who struggles with their mood, anxiety, or behaviors could greatly benefit from counseling through telehealth visits or in person when that bridge is crossed. No matter what bridge a person needs to cross or even build right now, there is no shame in asking for help.
Cynthia L. Meeske is a licensed social worker and Reiki Master Teacher and has been in private practice for 10 years. She is co-owner of the Balanced Path Wellness Center in Medway, MA. For more information, visit the website: www.yourbalancedpath.com