The New Normal: Embracing the Uncertainty!
 This is undoubtedly one of the most stressful times imaginable for many. As the number of COVD- 19 cases increases, so does the associated anxiety and stress. We do a double-take when we hear someone cough, sneeze, or sniffle. Friendly gestures such as handshakes, hugs are now being curbed, replaced by elbow bumps or waves from a social distance. We have been conditioned these past few months to be hypervigilant for these symptoms.
Coronavirus pandemic drives the message home that our physical health and our mental health are not separate. To overcome feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety and stress, and get through this pandemic with healthier minds, we need to be increasingly understanding and compassionate with ourselves and others when it comes to mental health. Creating healthier minds is a cultural shift and an ongoing work in progress.
- Anxiety Is an Indicator, Not a Dictator
It’s normal to feel anxious and worried during a national crisis. After four months of being in quarantine—it’s normal to question whether or not the world outside your front door is safe.
Talk to someone about your feelings. Journal about it.
- Focus on New Ways to Enjoy Life
We have no control when quarantine sanctions end. We have no idea if we will get sick. We don’t know what the world will be like after COVID. We’ve never done this before.
There are precautions you can still incorporate to maintain a healthy immune system. Continue to wash your hands, remember to bring sanitary wipes for shopping carts, and when someone suggests a hug or high five, suggest an elbow bump.
- Continue to Practice Self-Care
The beauty of COVID has been this: the entire world has been allowed to go indoors to rediscover joy, peace, patience, and love. We’ve been given the gift to be replenished from the inside out. This season has given us the tools to care for ourselves and our loved ones better.
Holding onto these excellent habits will help you in so many ways—one of the biggest ones being able to face anxiety-inducing situations like quarantine ending.
- It’s Okay to Get Extra Support
It’s okay to need help. It’s more than okay to get the support you need. We are going through a tough thing!
Seek extra help or support if you need it. Lean on your friends and faith community. Consider tele-health or e-health services, online support, and online or app-based self-management tools
- Music Is Powerful
The mind is a powerful thing. Yes, that’s right, throw on some of your favorite upbeat music and dance!
Although we have never gone through a quarantine like this before—or come out of one for that matter—we are in this together.
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