There’s plenty of advice right now about how to avoid contracting this disease but little about the psychological impact this is having on so many individuals. Only a relatively small percentage of the world’s population will develop the symptoms, however, a far greater number will feel the impact on their mental health.
Why? Because as humans we are designed to focus on threat and generally to the exclusion of any positive information. It makes sense, in that we need to protect ourselves from danger and not from the good things that happen each day. However, the unfortunate consequence is that we are often left obsessing about the ‘what ifs’ and unable to enjoy the moment.
The second problem is that as humans, we regularly have difficulty living with uncertainty. Living in the grey area where things may seem unclear and outcomes uncertain. All this results in anxiety and for those prone to anxious thoughts an unbearable level of worry.
So what can we do?
Recognize that ‘worry’ is quite simply ‘thinking about a problem’.
Identify the problem, decide what can be done, do it or plan to do it, then stop worrying.
If nothing can be done, stop worrying, there’s no point.
How to stop worrying?
Distraction. Find something that takes your mind off the worrying thoughts.
Something that requires your attention.
Why not use this time….
To be creative: painting, carpentry, sewing, DIY.
Spend time with the family. What better opportunity to play board games, teach skills or simply watch tv with the children.
Learn a new skill. A language or a musical instrument. There are so many tutorials available online, there’s literally no need to leave the house.
In short: we do not know the ultimate outcome of this situation, so there’s no point over analyzing or trying to prepare in advance. We must tolerate living with uncertainty and take action when we have more information and guidelines.
In the meantime, enjoy the moment. Use the time to do all the things you don’t normally find time to do. Spend time with the kids, with family, with ourselves.
And finally remember…..
“This too shall pass”
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