Love in the Time of COVID
This time of increased isolation and uncertainty is incredibly difficult for many. Here at Lantern Psychology we wanted to share our thoughts and well wishes.
In times of adversity, we humans like to find ways to have control, but this is not possible in the time of COVID-19. Using dysfunctional coping tools to feel a sense of control will only unnecessarily increase our anxiety and discomfort. Anxiety is a NORMAL response to uncertainty and adversity. During this time, we are called to adapt and adjust our routines and ways we connect. Sadness and grief are also NORMAL responses. We may be missing out on events we were looking forward to or perhaps we are grieving the widespread impact this has on the world. It is HUMAN to feel any of these emotions.
There are many authentic ways to find a sense of fulfillment during this forced time of stillness. We have the following suggestions and are working diligently to implement them ourselves as well:
-Do your best to follow some sort of daily structure or schedule
-Include self-care in that structure.
-Stay connected to support systems – Call, skype, facetime
-Stay nourished and well-rested. Rest is equally important as productivity. Rest is positively correlated with increased motivation, creativity, concentration, decision making and mitigating illness.
-Re-connect with or begin a new relationship with food and cooking
-Filter your consumption of news and social media by checking only one trusted source (CDC) one time per day and reading no longer than five minutes
-If you’re feeling FOMO, focus on any positives of missing out. For example, no crazy commute and saving on gas.
-If you’re scrolling social media, look for posts on kindness and gratitude or the amusing ways others are coping. For example, look up your favorite talk show hosts.
-Use reframes. For example, isolation can be more time to tackle a goal at home.
-Label what you feel. When we identify what we feel and why we feel it, it provides a sense of increased control. For example, I feel anxious about getting sick or others getting sick and I can help that by remembering to wash my hands, use Kleenex, etc.
- Set a limit for worrying time. Once up, move on by distracting yourself. We like reading, talking on the phone, and watching television.
-Give yourself a break. We are all learning and will make mistakes.
-Show gratitude to others. Send a thank you to those supporting you and the people checking you out at Target or delivering your food.
-Reach out for support. We’re here.