A Range of Emotions During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to abandon our usual routines. We have had to make major changes, overnight, in order to protect ourselves and our communities. For the time being, daily life is dramatically different. Naturally, many feelings may be surfacing during this time. 

Here are a few, among a long list of what people might be feeling, as we navigate this daunting experience:

Anxiety- About all the uncertainty tied to this pandemic

Worry- About family and loved ones’ health and wellbeing

Fear- About finances, job status, the economy

Guilt- About privilege, being employed/able to continue earning a living

Overwhelm- By juggling work demands and childcare/homeschooling 

Sadness- For those who have lost a loved one, and those struggling with meeting basic needs

Anger- At people not doing their part to “flatten the curve”

Grief- Over all the losses that are part of this experience

Happiness- To have an opportunity to slow down

Joy- To have quality and quantity time at home with family

Loneliness- If living alone, and as a result of having to isolate from family, friends, colleagues

Frustration- Due to loss of freedom, “cabin fever,” having to make changes

Gratitude- For the health care workers and all other front line workers

And many others…

While emotions, especially when they are intense and varied, may be hard to manage, it’s important to remember that feelings typically come and then pass, much like a wave. The best thing to do when the emotion waves hit, is to allow for and acknowledge what you are feeling, and if possible, talk about it with someone you trust. There are no “right” or “wrong” ways to feel at this time. Whatever you are feeling is valid. We are all in this together, apart. 

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If you’re struggling at this time, we are here to help. All sessions are taking place via a private, secure telehealth platform. Please reach out if you’d like to learn more.