We are all approaching the Coronavirus crisis differently. What works for me may not work for you. Before we can help others, it is pertinent to be clear of what the pandemic means for you as an individual. What are your coping techniques that will enable a positive turn in your life? What it means for us and how we deal with it will impact on a collective positive or negative outcome for the planet.
Here is a list of issues facing most of us and helpful ways of coping.
Loved ones may be ill
Naturally, you will worry, but try to look past this. Start to write down a possible strategy for dealing with the situation. The first step of writing it down brings it out of your head and breaks the chain of worrying thoughts. Have a plan ready for how you will support your loved ones and yourself if. Prepare as much as you can. For example, if you are worried about an elderly relative in isolation, call their neighbour now, or set them up for community support.
Loved ones may pass away
In my years of experience as a counsellor and coach, I have discovered that it is most difficult to come to terms with the death of a person where there has been a difficult relationship. When they die, there is no closure to the issues that caused the rift.
Make up and offer forgiveness now. Have those difficult conversations before it is too late. Say goodbye with love and kindness, instead of holding grudges that will never be resolved again. In the same vein, when a relationship is close and deep, it is equally important to say what you want now. I hear this commonly in my therapy room; “I wish I had told them how much I loved them. How much they mean to me.” Say it now or it may be left unspoken forever.
Time to reflect on priorities
By now, many people have realised that their flash car, big house, job title etc is not going to make them immune to a deadly virus. But what will help them, is a healthy, strong, resilient, physical body. As well as having good friends and family for support. Use this time to strengthen your body and your bonds with family and friends.
Loss of money
This is a reality for many of us. How do you budget? How can you be thriftier? Sit down as a family (or online) and have conversations on how to save money. Be proactive, instead of worrying. Ask your manager for guidance and support. If you are self-employed, reflect on where you can cut down outgoings, diversify or work with other businesses. Be creative in how you use your resources.
Time for gratitude
Make a daily list of what you have and what has gone well with your friends and family, instead of fearing the worst. It is no-good worrying about something which may never happen, but what you have now is real. Be thankful for that.
Time to pursue your passions
I feel blessed that I love writing and have got copious time in my day to do that now. What are the things you always wanted to do and had no time for? Learn to cook, play an instrument, read that big fat novel? Stop watching the news all day. Maybe once in the morning and evening is enough, and get on with doing what you love.
Just ‘Be’
I am a doer and have to constantly remind myself to slow down, just ’be’ and STOP. This is our opportunity to slow down and just ‘be’ in the moment. Sit and listen to the birds or look at that lovely painting on your wall. When in conversation with friends and family, be present with them, rather than thinking of other things and rushing through the conversation. Listen to them carefully and offer love and kindness.
When you have reflected on all of the above, you will feel stronger and able to support those around you.
If you need help with any of the above, we have a team ready to help you across the country.
Contact us on 07888747438.