Although thecoronaviruswas circulating in the United States in January 2020, last March was full of harrowing firsts.
According to theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), many states started issuingstay-at-homeorders last March.
So its logical that March might find you feeling a little heavier.
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This anniversary can be triggering in multiple ways.
The pandemic is a unique stressor because we are still in it even though a year has passed.
Even if you arent intentionally reflecting or watching much news, the pandemic has been fundamentally disruptive.
The pandemic anniversary might affect you mentally, physically, or both.
These feelings can manifest physically too.
AsSELF previously reported, this response is generally known as the fight-or-flight response.
it’s possible for you to experiencephysical issueslike insomnia, gastrointestinal troubles, and shortness of breath.
So it can be a vicious circle.
Heres how you might cope during March (and beyond).
If youve stopped doing these, pick one or two and attempt to do them consistently.
If you find that your old tricks and tactics arent as effective, dont worry too much.
Its okay to try new things and discard practices that no longer work.
Experimentation can help you get through the month.
you might write it down or name it aloud.
Doing this brings mindful awareness to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations, Dr. Garfin says.
Known as the rest-and-digest response, the action of your parasympathetic nervous system can help counter anxiety.
(There are lots of other greatgrounding techniquesto try as well.)
Since the pandemic hasnt ended, theres a chance other peoples posts will reflectuncertaintyandgrief.
Reading that others share your distress may feel validating, but it can also activate stress and compound anxieties.
It might seem hokey, butgratitude listsand journals are tried-and-true advice among therapists.
At the same time, Im very grateful I have relatives to move in with, says Dr. Garfin.
And dont forget to express gratitude toward yourself too, Dr. Garfin says, for surviving an unprecedented time.
What do I want to change from here onward to make it easier to deal with?
Reminding yourself that youve weathered difficult moments and solved problems helps you build the resilience necessary to keep thriving.
Could you phone a friend?
you’re able to look into finding anaffordable provideror anonline support groupto help you process.
you could text HOME to 741741 and connect with aCrisis Text Linecounselor who can support you.
Or it’s possible for you to contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifeline1-800-273-8255to get extra support if you need it.
