The events of 2020 showed to be nothing but out-of-the-ordinary. As people of the world, we experienced things we never thought we would ever experience in our lifetime. During times like this, especially with a pandemic, we may be accompanied with overwhelming feelings and anxiety. The truth is, even if we try to avoid it, pandemics can be quite stressful on us. We spent the last few months not knowing exactly what tomorrow holds for us, waiting for some good news. However, stress and anxiety are not all we saw as an outcome of this pandemic.
What is happening?
As governments around the world began dealing with the pandemic, safety and social distancing measures began to be implemented. Of those measures was staying at home. In some cases, governments implemented complete lockdowns, which meant that no one was allowed to leave the house by law. As people who live during the modern times of the 21st century, we are, simply, not used to such drastic measures. In general, we are used to the busy lifestyle of working and going places, as well as staying connected to people on a regular and daily basis.
There is no denying that these measures must have taken many of us by surprise. Our routine and lives have changed completely, and it is beyond our control. Moreover, many employees around the world lost their jobs or received cuts in their salaries due to downfall of the economy.
Your mental health
The daily mental stress and uncertainty that is being experienced is likely to take a toll on your mental health. In many cases, it can lead to minor or major cases of depression. The feelings of stress we may be experiencing as a result of constantly worrying about our future and our jobs can be a large trigger. Isolation and loneliness may be huge triggers as well. We are social people by nature. We may not realize it normally but receiving constant love and support from our friends and family is something that tends to help us cope with the daily stressors we experience. Moreover, the concept of feeling out of control can also be a trigger to many people. These triggers can lead to a large decrease in motivation and an increased feeling of hopelessness.
Dealing with it
If you are feeling very low and unmotivated, just know that you are not alone. Just know that it is completely okay. You are living through extraordinary circumstances and you are not expected to be completely fine with it. Your feelings are valid, and it is okay to recognize and acknowledge that.
If you are having a hard time, resort to someone. Find comfort in those around you, even if it is through phone calls or video calls. When things are getting harder, take it easy on yourself. Do not pressure yourself to do the things that you would usually be able to when things are normal. Remember that what you are living through is not normal. So, take a break when you need it. When you need that break, find simple sources of joy. Do things that will bring you some joy throughout your day. This can be as simple as watching a show, listening to music, cooking a quick meal, speaking to a friend, etc.
At the end of the day, always remember that you are not alone.