Risk, fear, devastation, death, panic, anger – turn on your television or visit the homepage of any news site and you are bound to see any or all these words, give or take a dozen more. With less than two weeks to go before the outcome of the presidential election of the century mixed with the dreaded second surge of the coronavirus, it is safe to admit we are in the thick of worry with no exit sign in sight. Summer brought a sense of relief to the minds of many Americans and citizens worldwide with brighter days, warmer weather, and a general sense that perhaps the worst had passed and we were able to focus on things that brought us joy with only minor modifications to how we went about our days. As temperatures dropped and many headed back to school and assembled a new routine, we were once again reminded that 2020 is not done with us, as much as we would love for her to be. The wave of worry that nearly drowned us at the beginning of 2020 has returned and we are left once again to determine whether we will sink or swim.
According to a report conducted by the CDC, the number of Americans reporting anxiety symptoms is three times the number at this same time last year. The demands of trying to balance work and family during the pandemic are elevating the stress response in our bodies, negatively affecting our energy levels and overall physical health. “We are already seeing the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s mental well-being, and this is just the beginning. Unless we make serious commitments to scale up investment in mental health right now, the health, social and economic consequences will be far-reaching.” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization. As the days get shorter and chillier and the infection rate continues to climb in most states across the nation with talk of preventative treatments still months away, many of us are left asking the same thing: “What’s next?”
According to a report conducted by the CDC, the number of Americans reporting anxiety symptoms is three times the number at this same time last year. The demands of trying to balance work and family during the pandemic are elevating the stress response in our bodies, negatively affecting our energy levels and overall physical health. “We are already seeing the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s mental well-being, and this is just the beginning. Unless we make serious commitments to scale up investment in mental health right now, the health, social and economic consequences will be far-reaching.” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization. As the days get shorter and chillier and the infection rate continues to climb in most states across the nation with talk of preventative treatments still months away, many of us are left asking the same thing: “What’s next?”
Take time for self-care
Perhaps now more than ever, it’s essential that we take the time necessary to relax and reset. Carve time out of your day to focus on yourself and what your mind and body needs to remain healthy. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Encourage your friends and family to do the same and make self-care part of your daily routine.
Be present
We find ourselves trapped in the loop of worry when we catch ourselves in the future or the past. In a time when nothing is certain, it can seem impossible to sit comfortably in the “here and now” but being present can help us determine out next best step. Ruminating on past choices or fearing what our future may look like only amplifies our stress and self-doubt. Create a mantra to help plant your feet in the present and repeat it as often as needed when moments of stress or concern take over.
Ask for help
Your struggles are not yours and yours alone. Find a coworker, friend, or a group of loved ones to call on for support when you need it most. The situations and feelings we are dealing with today are as real as they come and require support and empathy for solutions to be found. Find your tribe and utilize their support.
Comfort is in Your Control
The first step is always a challenge to take and the emotional and physical toll this year has taken on us all has impeded our ability to find and maintain our focus, but hope is not lost. The tumultuous year of 2020 is almost over, but your journey has just begun and is not meant to be taken alone. If you are ready to find your footing, our coaches can help. Reach out to us today.
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