As COVID-19 safety protocols and regulations continue to sweep our nation, we’re all working to adjust to our ‘new normal’. From telework to e-learning, many of us are juggling tasks that are well outside the realm of our old responsibilities.
Nonetheless, we continue to move forward in positivity and compliance to keep our families and those around us safe and healthy. But adjusting to these new tasks, responsibilities, and environments isn’t always a smooth transition. Be kind to yourself if you are struggling or feeling overwhelmed. As you continue to adjust to your new normal, remember:
You’re being asked to take on new roles…
To juggle and multitask…
To turn your home into a classroom, office, and restaurant…
You’re being asked to do many things!
Common Feelings & Emotions
Making adjustments to new things isn’t always easy, but there are ways to help yourself cope with limitations, overcome challenges, and cultivate happiness. So, the next time you experience feelings of overwhelm, fear, sadness, or anxiety, take a moment to try and identify the specific cause.
Here are some common feelings and emotions you might encounter as you
continue to adjust to your new normal:
Frustration
Frustration is a common emotional response to opposition. It also can develop when something prevents us from reaching a goal.
Unfortunately, frustration often leads to negativity and anger. Maybe you are frustrated with the technological complications associated with working from home. Or, perhaps, you are frustrated that you weren’t able to stay calm and collected while explaining the algebra assignment.
Whatever the reason for your frustration, stay focused on the big picture.
Sometimes we get so wrapped up in one problem and trying to solve it that we forget what we were originally trying to accomplish.
Try to simplify things and remove noise and distractions so you can stay focused. Remember to take baby steps forward so procrastination doesn’t set in!
Fear
New polls show that fear is on the rise in America over COVID-19. There’s the fear of the unknown surrounding this novel pandemic, the financial fears surrounding the economy, and, of course, fears of the disease itself.
Fear is actually a normal human emotion hardwired into our brains. It helps keep us safe by responding to threats in the environment. Fear can do many things and, for some, it can be crippling.
The good news is being fearless doesn’t mean eliminating fear. It means knowing how to leverage fear. Recognize your fears without letting them spiral. Also, fear dictates the actions that you take (freeze, fight, flight, or fright), so don’t be lead by it. Follow the facts.
Sadness
The nightly news is full of events, stories, and statistics that can leave you feeling down. On top of your rising fears surrounding COVID-19, you might feel sad that the whole ‘work from home’ concept doesn’t really work for you. Maybe you feel pressured from society to be the perfect Pinterest Parent and now you’re feeling sad that you didn’t meet your expectations.
Remember that sadness, especially in a time of uncertainty, is a normal emotion. Let yourself feel. Express your emotions and work through them instead of holding them in. Try and overcome sadness by focusing on the good, practicing gratuity, and setting reasonable expectations each day.
If you or someone you love is struggling with emotional adjustments during this time of uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, please remember our team is here for you!
We’re here to assist our community during this challenging time through telemedicine appointments from the comfort and safety of your own home.
