Is your motivation waning? Has Netflix lost its luster? Does Facetiming feel flat?
As the COVID-19 pandemic drags on, it seems like it’s too long to be shut up inside, conducting life on a screen, only seeing the upper half of your friends' faces—or in person from a distance of six feet. It seems that way because it is that way!
It HAS Been Too Long
We are all sick and tired of living under the weight of this brutal pandemic. And the sick-and-tiredness comes out in different ways for different people. Some of us feel short-tempered. Those of us who are vulnerable to anxiety notice it flaring more often. Insomnia strikes some who never struggled with it before. Staying on top of work is tough. And grief is always heavier when we are alone.
What to do with ourselves when we are struggling, when life feels extra hard?
1: Be Kind
It is normal to struggle. Notice your sadness or anger or worry with compassion, and remind yourself there is nothing wrong with you. You are responding to hardship in a natural, human way. Life is tough. You can't get around it.
2: Go Outside
It won't "fix" anything, but it will likely take the edge off. Leave your home. Take a walk around the block, ride a bike, venture downtown, check out a park or hiking trail. Feel the sun and wind on your face. But it's a little cold! you say. But spring is coming, summer’s around the corner, and you can feel it! Also, wear a coat.
3: Reach Out
Everyone has their own struggles to manage, it's true. But asking a friend to talk, sharing that you're having a hard time, or inviting someone to take a walk with you (see item #2) because you could really use some company is NOT being a burden. Sharing our hardships brings us closer together. Letting the people who love you know how you feel is a gift, even when the feelings are painful.
And if you are in need of immediate help, it is available 24/7. Don’t hesitate to reach out:
Lancaster County Crisis Intervention: 717-394-2631
Learn about Behavioral Health services at Lancaster General Health.