Thoughts to Ponder as We Continue to ‘Hunker Down’

“Stay home” is a repeated phrase that we are hearing over and over again; most people are doing their best to be cautious and to follow the rules. Yesterday, I listened to a podcast entitled “Getting Through Covid-19: Directives Supporting Connection & Emotional Health” featured on Light Up the Couch. Here are some things to ponder as we continue to face the effects of social isolation (paraphrased):

• Shared experiences are what we are currently missing the most as that is an important element in how we feel connected to others. Play a game via a video platform, create a group chat with friends or family where you can upload pics from your daily life.
• Develop a habit of reaching out to one or two people a day. Intentionality will keep the blues from setting in.
• Not all people who are alone are lonely. Some people who live alone may not perceive themselves as being lonely because they are reaching out to others through phone calls, social distanced walks, or increased video chats. 
• Create a “Covid-19” free time. During dinner for example, that topic is off limits.
• We tend to have increased anxiety when we can’t control or predict our environment. The pandemic puts us automatically in limbo which can increase our fears. Creating a routine while at home will help counter the anxiety, as when we continue to control what we can, we feel a deeper sense of calm. 
• We may be also holding the fears of other family members. Recognizing that this might be happening can be a way to both assure ourselves and others that there is a beginning, a middle and an end to this current situation.

Some interesting things to ponder as we continue to hunker down. 🙂

Although the podcast is intended for therapists, you are more than welcome to give it a listen: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/john-irias/light-up-the-couch/e/68524908

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Photo credit: http://Photo by Chris Barbalis on Unsplash