March 2020 has brought fear regarding the worldwide health crises of Corona Virus. Our daily interactions have changed, sporting and recreational events have been cancelled or postponed, people are going to stores and purchasing items in case they are not able to leave home, and the stock market as plummeted. So here we are. What do you do when everyone feels anxious and fearful? What do you do when you don’t know what will happen? We all must slow down, breathe, count your blessings, and understand what is in our control. Here are some examples:
- Slowing down refers to the ability to take the necessary time to process the information you hear. Often, once we take a moment to process without the fight or flight response anxiety brings, we can see clearer and develop strategies for safety.
- Count your blessings. When things appear to go wrong its important to pay attention to what is right. Fear makes you feel like your world is coming to an end. Many times the things we catastrophize are just inconveniences. Intentionally look for the good in every situation.
- Understand what is in your control. You cannot control what others do, You cannot control a virus but you can control how you respond to any stressor.
None of us know wat the future holds but we can begin to make our present the best it can be.
Author,
Alicia Lurry LPC