Self Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Emotional Needs
The photo of the eggs below is a great visual representation of the emotional rollercoaster most of us are on as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although we’re all experiencing this crisis as humans across the globe, our responses to the pandemic vary considerably based on our own circumstances. For some, the pandemic is a traumatic experience leaving them feeling grief over losses, shock, and disbelief, while for others this experience is a minor annoyance. Normal emotional responses to traumatic experiences include: shock/disbelief, fear, sadness, guilt, anger, shame, happiness, and so on. It’s also normal to experience all of these emotions over the course of an hour, day, or week!
Tending to our emotional needs with self-compassion is important. I’ve heard a lot of people minimize their experiences because they feel guilty about not being impacted by the crisis to the same degree as other people (“I’m so grateful that I still have a job when so many others are suffering”). We can hold space for all the emotions that are coming up, even if the emotions are conflicting (fear about the future and joy about spending more time with your kids, for instance). Judging ourselves about how we’re coping emotionally is counterproductive to our emotional well-being.
As a practice, I invite you to give yourself permission to do the following:
Feel all the feelings that come with uncertain times. However you feel, you’re not wrong for feeling whatever way you’re feeling. Its okay to feel horrible about what’s going on.
To be human, vulnerable, and not have all the answers. It’s okay to say “I don’t know” or to share your feelings openly and authentically with loved ones, including your kids.
To be imperfect. Showing up right now may be all you can do. Nothing right now needs to be “your best work” or “A” work!! In fact, putting high expectations on yourself during a stressful situation just serves to further increase your suffering.
Seek help and resources, alter your daily schedule as needed, and cut way back on your commitments.
Express your emotions in a healthy way (e.g., cry in your car, write angrily in your journal, share what scares you with a trusted friend).
Take a “time out” or some “me time.” Your self-care and emotional health is important too. I always use the analogy about airplane oxygen masks - put your oxygen mask on first before helping others. This may involve setting some boundaries with kids, partners, family, friends, and employers.
Practice your deep breathing whenever you need to.
Prioritize rest, regular meals, physical activity, meditation, and anything else that keeps you emotionally centered.
Guess what, I’m giving myself permission to do the same!
Photo by Tengyart (@tengyart) via Unsplash