Everyone is feeling the impacts of COVID-19. It has been almost a year since the outbreak began in China. The toll this pandemic has had on individuals all around the world is immense. Hundred of thousands of lives lost and many more impacted by the severity of the virus. This is a time where people need to come together and support one another. I know this is difficult because people are being hesitant about being around others, but there are ways to check in on family and friends from a distance. Make sure you talk with the people you love regularly and discuss COVID and its impacts as an open topic. Environments are changing which causes new stressors to surface. This is a time of uncertainty and some people may not be able to go through it alone. There are ways to cope with the impacts of COVID-19 and here are some that have helped me the last few months:
- Make lists of your quarantine goals. This can be small goals such as trying to use less technology or to try to eat healthier. These can also be larger goals like searching for a new job or trying to homeschool your children better.
- Plan things to do once restrictions are lifted and a vaccine has been created. Start to plan a vacation you have always wanted, plan a get together with all your family and friends, or even as small as eating inside at your favorite restaurant.
- Take time for yourself. Whether you are working, homeschooling, or going to school, take at least a half-hour a day just to yourself and do something you love. This can be anything. Reading, working out, watching TV, cooking, etc. just make sure it brings you joy and less stress.
- And lastly, be optimistic. I know you are probably being told this by many people, but it is essential. The pandemic will end, and you will be able to bounce back, just believe in yourself and everything you are capable of.
You are not alone, don’t be afraid to ask for help. <3