The current pandemic affecting much of the world is a unique situation in which we are all experiencing a sense of fellowship and togetherness. While this would normally be a wonderful thing, the context of this unity is nothing to celebrate.
Virtually everyone is feeling the effects of the COVID-19 coronavirus, whether dealing with the virus first hand, having to watch loved ones go through this illness or trying to deal with the isolation and quarantine required by all. It should come as no surprise that a universal feeling of sadness has become the norm throughout society.
Feeling sad about such an unfortunate situation is completely acceptable, even expected. However, there are many different ways to manage this emotion. The purpose of this article is to briefly discuss several ways to address the sadness many individuals are currently feeling in a healthy way.
Support The Cause
Probably the best way to alleviate a sense of sadness brought about by the current health crisis is to actively support the cause. This can be done on a very simple and personal level or on a larger scale.
The first step in doing your part is by following the recommended precautions necessary to prevent contracting or spreading the coronavirus. Washing your hands regularly, staying home as much as possible and avoiding being around high-risk individuals is without a doubt and effective way to take action.
As we are all aware, there are many individuals that need help right now. Healthcare workers are putting themselves in harms way every day, many without the proper protective equipment. Many children who depend on school being in session to get enough to eat are left without any viable means of food.
Thousands of employees and local businesses have been stripped of their normal income. Fortunately, there are already relief efforts in place to support all of these victims. Teaming up with this sort of coalition can be a great way to manage not only the sadness you feel personally, but also the affected population as a whole.
Vocalize Your Feelings
Sadness is an emotion that must be suppressed. Often times, we tend to hold our feelings in because we feel that others will not relate or that we might be a burden. However, the situation at hand is in the hearts and minds of everyone.
If you need to talk about how this pandemic is affecting you mentally, rest assured that there are plenty of people around you experiencing the same thing who are more than willing to discuss the issue. Avoid bottling up your negative emotions, as vocalizing them to someone else who may be scared to do the same can be therapeutic for all parties involved. Just because someone is not expressing their feeling verbally does not mean they are necessarily handing this situation as well as they want to.
Gain Perspective From This Situation
Although it is never the right idea to capitalize on another’s suffering, this health crisis can serve as an incredible perspective shift. So many things that most of us took for granted every single day such as our health, socializing with friends and loved ones and even being able to freely participate in the things we enjoy now seem like quite the privilege.
The little things we all use to take for granted…..like shaking hands when greeting, or a hug, or going for a drive to a favourite location, have all been taken a way now and many of us are pining for those familiar privilges to now be part of life again.
While you may be experiencing a deep sense of sadness right now, imagine the happiness that will present itself at the end of the crisis. When the world is once again open for business, you will almost certainly have a newfound sense of appreciation and joy for the fortunate moments that each day brings.
Handling Loneliness During The Pandemic
We can’t go to see our friends or family. No one knows exactly how long that fact will last. Even if you aren’t alone in your home, you might need help handling loneliness during the pandemic stay at home orders. This is especially true for those of us who live alone, and according to statistics that number is in the millions. This can also be especially trying for those who typicaly enjoy a vibrant social life.
Loneliness is no joke. As humans, we are social animals. When we can’t interact with others, we become susceptible to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Remember that you you may be isolated but you are not alone, even if you feel that way.
Conclusion
With so much uncertainty around us daily, it’s good to hold onto something positive. We will get through this. We are all future survivors of the 2020 COVID 19 pandemic. We stayed home, we disinfected our groceries, we wore masks, and we watched a lot of TV. It is important to look past your current feelings and realize that things are going to be okay and that, when they do, the little things will be much larger sources of happiness.