Coping With the Pandemic

It helps to remember that you're not alone. I think everybody is feeling more depression and anxiety in these strange times, and it's valid. We're more isolated, things are more uncertain, and there are fewer opportunities connect with people and get involved in projects, at least in the traditional way. It can be especially difficult for people who were already struggling with eating disorders, substance abuse, or other mental health issues. That's not to say it's all bad. There are some positives and some new opportunities in the whole mess. I just think it's extra important to be kind to yourself and accepting of whatever emotions you're feeling. The stress of it all gets ramped up even more when you start telling yourself, "I shouldn't be feeling this." Or, "I shouldn't be eating this." If you need a cry, or a nap, or a bag of Cheetos, or mindless social media, it's ok! Own it instead of beating yourself up for it. We're all doing what we can.

Early on, I really felt like I was thriving during the pandemic. Working from home, spending quality time with my family, refocusing my priorities. I have some real homebody hermit tendencies, but now even I am starting to feel like, "OMG, will this never end!!" I want to go places and see people. I miss going to work. I miss my coworkers. Every day, I spend the whole day at home, usually alone because my husband is still going to work. Seven months of it, and I can feel my sanity gears starting to slip a little. ⚙️😜 I definitely have more anxiety and depression than normal. Is it the pandemic? Hormones? Age? I don't know. But I let myself feel however I feel. I don't try to hide it or numb it. I do try to talk about it. I definitely try to find the humor in it. And I routinely remind myself that it won't always be this way. Nothing is permanent, even this mess.

I so appreciate others willing to talk about it. I think, especially online, we can get the impression that everybody else is fine and we're struggling alone. It's not true! Everyone is facing challenges right now. All we can do is be kind to ourselves and support one another.