We hope that telling our stories will help strengthen our community and give hope to others in similar situations.
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I’ve been feeling disoriented lately. As an introvert, I haven’t found the pandemic as difficult as many people. I am fine being by myself, especially in these cold winter months. Sitting in front of a fire with a hot drink is particularly comforting.
But I am restless, and my anxiety seems worse than usual. I’m beginning to miss my small group gatherings, I am desperate to hug my grandchildren, and I can’t wait to actually walk into a store and go shopping without racing in and out. We’ve been isolating as much as possible— safe but difficult.
I know I am not alone. Even if you’ve continued to work or shop, you may still be feeling the anxiety that comes with this lack of control. Humans are comforted by feeling in control of their lives, and we’re frustrated by the uncertainty these days. Several articles have referred to the term “hitting the pandemic wall” to describe the feeling many of us are experiencing.
What can help? When I see the words “just breathe,” my first thought is “oh, sure.” But I have found that in the moment I CAN stop my heart from racing or my mind from going to those dark places. The best technique for me is to inhale (into your diaphragm, otherwise it can actually increase anxiety), count to three and hold, and then release. Two or three breaths, and I feel better.
Another way I cope is to try to stick to a schedule. My husband and I started walking twice a day, and though I miss on occasion, the routine brings some stability to my life.
Finally, I look for a way to do something kind for others. I might write letters to someone in a senior living facility. They’ve been isolated more than any of us, and receiving a note with kind message might make their day. Baking cookies for first responders is always appreciated and will probably help you feel better, too.
If you’ve tried these things and can’t get beyond the “pandemic wall,” or if you can’t get yourself to try. new strategies, Mental Health America of Fredericksburg has resources available, so please contact us if you need help.
Remember, we are seeing the light. While distribution may seem slow, the vaccines are here. Soon, we will be out and around. But I’ve stopped saying “back to normal.” Learning to cope, accept, and deal with this pandemic will help us build strength and resilience for whatever we face in the future.
“Our new normal is always feeling a little off balance, like trying to stand in a dinghy on rough seas, and not knowing when the storm will pass.” @tarahaelle
But knowing we are not alone matters.