Managing Challenging Times
Not that any of us need reminding, but 2020 has been quite the challenging year for most of us! There is much uncertainty and many adjustments to be made - some beneficial, others, not so much.
As with most challenging times, a lot of the struggle comes from the uncertainty (or lack of control) - which can often leave us thinking less than realistically about the situation. There is the tendency to focus on the aspects that we can’t control, but what if instead we looked at what we can control, or at least what we can do to gain a sense of control. Yes, sometimes things can be dire on a broader scale, but scaling it down to our own immediate world, it may in fact be quite manageable.
In terms of avoiding being infected with and/or spreading coronavirus (COVID-19), or any other infectious condition, we can control what we do to keep ourselves and others safe. That is: regularly and thoroughly washing our hands with hot soapy water or hand sanitiser - especially after being out in public, before/after eating, touching eyes, nose or mouth, blowing our nose, sneezing/coughing, and (this should go without saying) after going to the toilet. We can also limit going out, unless necessary, and maintain social distancing (1.5 metres) from others when we do go out. Etcetera, etcetera.
Instead of focusing on the issue itself, we can look for opportunities it may present. Perhaps you have more time to learn, create, spend time with loved ones, get things done that you have been putting off, or even binge watch a series you haven’t had the time to watch. Maybe it’s an opportunity to upskill, or look into a new job/career - with the extra at-home time on your hands this could be the gentle push you needed.
Being accepting and adaptable are also important skills to help yourself through challenging times, not only towards the situations that we can’t change, but also towards the unpleasant feelings that often coincide. It’s okay to experience adverse reactions to adverse situations. Ultimately, we’re all just trying to survive - adversity can threaten our sense of safety and security. It’s human nature to react or have responses that are less than pleasant and/or helpful - it’s what we do with our choices (i.e. what we can do) once the initial dust settles and we are able to think more clearly that matters.
Sometimes you just feel crappy and unmotivated about things, that’s okay too. Rather than dwelling on or beating yourself up about it, accept it and find a way to adapt that makes you feel good. Perhaps that could be playing music that makes you feel good - sometimes playing music while you do the things that you are avoiding can make those things, at least a little, easier. Completing tasks can give you a sense of achievement, lifting your spirits and helping you to regain a sense of ability rather than dis-ability.
Less infectious disease related - if you’re experiencing a physical or mental health issue that you’re not able to manage on your own - you can seek professional help. If you are in the care of a healthcare professional, follow their advice on self-maintenance at home (following or between appointments). If you’re unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask.
Unfortunately, in times like these it can be all too easy to become fatigued with the situation and fall into complacency. However, if we want things to go back to “normal” as soon as possible we need to remain vigilant and careful with what we do. In reality, flu season comes around every year, as does the spread of gastrointestinal infections, so we can all help prevent the spread of these each year by maintaining the current hygiene recommendations. Create the habit and it will become second-nature.
A final thought: as the adage goes, first you must put on your own oxygen mask - that is to say, before you take care of others, you must first take care of yourself.
If there’s a physical or mental health issue that our Be Well Osteopaths or Psychologist can help you with in regards to taking care of your needs, please don’t hesitate to contact our Grovedale clinic. Call our friendly receptionists on (03) 5244 0063, send us an email at info@bewellhealthgroup.com, or book online.