Living With Anxiety During A Pandemic

This week has been tough. Let me tell you more about what it is like having anxiety during a pandemic...

With the chaotic news, school closures, cancelled events, social distancing, economic instability, panic and fear it has been hard not to simply react. In addition to that, the most challenging dynamics have been encountering adults who are downplaying the chaos or telling me to "calm down". For me, this reaction can feel like they are being reckless with a situation that is obviously difficult for me and many others. I have found myself defensive, frustrated and angry - but here is a clue - this is a TRAUMA response. Walk gently.

Would I prefer to be more comfortable with the news, the uncertainty, ABSOLUTELY - but that is not my lived experience, in fact ignoring my alarm bells would require me to betray myself which then leads to more anxiety.

So how do we become soft edges in a world clamouring for higher ground? May I recommend LISTENING - asking questions rather than offering an opinion. If you are open to what is behind the energy you are encountering in another person you will grow empathy and respond in a beautifully human way.

May I also recommend CONNECTION - sending an email or text or using Facetime to connect with your community as social distancing becomes inevitable. There are contemplatives and introverts among you who will shine in these next few weeks, lean into them for insights on how to survive in a world that is quieter, especially if that sort of quiet is unnerving for you.