Coping With a New Normal. The past couple of weeks have kind of felt surreal to me as I feel like I am a character in a disaster movie. Who could have possibly seen the COVID-19 virus as a pandemic? (well… one answer would be God). Every person in the world has been impacted by the Coronavirus. Is it possible to live in the new normal without feeling fear or anxiety? The short answer is yes, but it takes some effort.
Growing up I learned that I had a chronic illness. What this has meant for me is that my immune system has been compromised but I am still able to live a normal life. However, at first I think I was in denial as I could not fathom at the age of 15 that bad things really happen. Over time I have learned how to manage and now it is second nature. Coping With a New Normal.
There are a couple of points that I can identify that have helped me cope. First of all, look reality in the face and realize what is really happening. When a person is completely honest and aware of what is happening, they realize they are responsible for their actions and feelings. Know the feelings you are experiencing are valid and do not dismiss them. When you dismiss how you are feeling you are denying a valid emotion and if not dealt with in the moment it will come back. Coping With a New Normal.
Secondly, do not cope with this new normal alone. Even though we are all socially distancing and/or are in quarantine, technology has made it possible where we can still communicate and be in a community even if it looks different. I have read about small groups and life groups meeting online. An entire office of people is able to still collaborate on a project together.
As a self-professed introvert (and a lover of cats), I have sort of enjoyed working from home. Still I am able to connect with friends, some I have not spoken to in a while. Make the effort to reach out.
Lastly, make a plan of some sort. Your plan can be as simple as you would like or as elaborate as you like it. A plan gives you some semblance of structure which is really good to have in uncertain times. A plan is like pouring concreate to next steps. A plan gives you something to look toward.
An example of a plan would be to set up daily schedule. If you are able to work at home, terrific! Block out 9am to 5pm or 10am to 3pm to get work done. One curveball for me is my gym is closed for the next month. So, I have had to get creative with working out. You could fill up two plastic bags to use as free weights. The possibilities are endless.
If you are looking for a therapist near you and a Google search is a great way of finding one. I happen to be a therapist in Charlotte, NC but am licensed to counsel anyone in the state of North Carolina. In Google, try looking for “psychotherapist,” “find therapist,” “therapy near me,” or even “counseling charlotte, nc.” If you feel like you have hit a wall you are not able to get past, call me at (704) 458-6298 or email me at jeffhelms@clearerthoughtspllc.com.
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