The pandemic is a problem unlike any most of us have faced in our lifetimes. One day soon, we hope, to start thinking and talking about COVID-19 in the past tense. But, for now, the emotional pain and discomfort of the virus have changed life dramatically and unexpectedly. Our need to process the transition and adapt is real, present, and beneficial.

To get a handle on this, let’s consider the problems we are facing below. Afterward, we’ll take a look a how to recover and move forward.

How We Are All Suffering Due to COVID-19

Are you feeling helpless and hopeless?

Every day we are given information, statistics, and instruction. We are shown, via social and mainstream media, that coronavirus cases are increasing in most states. ICU beds are filling. Death tolls are rising. Economies are stumbling. Its no wonder we feel unable to meaningfully change the current circumstances or keep ourselves completely safe.

With this in mind, it is important that we find ways to find hope. Establishing a reasonable sense of personal control and empowerment is vital.

Are you isolated and lonely?

We are wired for togetherness. We want to connect and belong. The pandemic is particularly painful if you are attempting to shelter-at-home alone.

Isolation and social restriction can create a significant strain on our minds and bodies. Being with others, especially those we know and trust, feels safe and soothing to us. Lacking such connection and witnessing the loneliness of others, can lead to unhelpful stress, rumination, and frustration. Over a series of months, feeling disconnected with no end in sight takes an exacting toll on mood and motivation.

Are you depressed and anxious?

Routinely, we are given more virus symptoms to add to an ever-growing list. This puts us all on edge and might make us question whether life will ever return to normal. Perhaps you lose sleep due to racing thoughts and intrusive worry. Or you struggle to work at home or even get out of bed because daily life feels so overwhelming. Some of us may not be sure what we’re feeling beyond heavy hearts or a persistent sense of panic.

Are you feeling financially insecure?

People across the nation are experiencing the economic effects of the pandemic too. Some of us are furloughed, some of us have lost our jobs completely. Moreover, the ongoing problems regarding opening and closing businesses due to the rise and fall of infection rates feels incredibly unstable.

This is creating so much distress. Many of us are angry or scared… and rightfully so. To suddenly face the loss of income, regardless of your financial status, is deeply disruptive. Economic losses often trigger doubt about our abilities to care for ourselves and loved ones, sustain households, and secure a viable future.

Are you coping poorly?

Some of us are finding ways to feel better. Unfortunately, these attempts may be temporary and have the potential to create more problems than they solve. Soothing pandemic pain with food, alcohol, or drugs is not uncommon but it can be increasingly harmful over time.

Pandemic Perseverance: What to Do Now

It’s okay to struggle with the impact of the pandemic. Try not to beat yourself up. You have a right to feel sad, lonely, angry, and more. We are all feeling these things collectively and separately at any given time. Our emotions are nothing to be ashamed of. Nor must they keep us stuck and disconnected.

The way forward is to pay attention to what we’re feeding. Not to bury or avoid our emotions. The best way to do that when so much is happening and so much feels up in the air? Seek support. Reach out to a therapist who has the experience and expertise to help you.

Developing a strategy to combat the pain of isolation while honoring the health benefits of social distancing is a challenge. Still, meeting our social needs while we wait for a vaccine is possible and paramount until the pandemic is behind us. The truth is, COVID-related anxiety and depression are not uncommon. Yet, it’s important to know that they are also not insurmountable.

Scheduling regular therapy sessions can break through the haze of bad news and pessimism accompanying the virus. Allow yourself a safe time and place for thoroughly processing your personal response You may find that sharing your feelings, sensations, and relationship concerns is productive and cathartic.

I am interested in being available to you for trauma counseling, however you are suffering. Despite how it feels, you haven’t lost control over your life. Happiness is not out of reach. Let’s come to terms with COVID-19 together.