Grief and Anxiety in the Age of Isolation

by Jan McDaniel

The new strain of Coronavirus (COVID-19) has ushered in a new and unfamiliar age of grief and anxiety to most, if not all, of us, worldwide. For those who are already grieving a significant loss, the extra burdens of worry, fear, and social isolation can make that more difficult. For others, the shock and unaccustomed lifestyle changes required might  be debilitating. All of us may experience substantial issues surrounding our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

In a way, grief is grief. Loss is loss. The loss that is most important to an individual, however, is the one that person experiences. As we join together to endure what we must, there are a few concepts and actions that could help us make it through.

• Be kind. It makes a difference. If we keep that in mind - and I have already seen many instances where that is happening - we have an aid in staying calm, thinking clearly, and preparing the best we can.
• Look for ways to cope. Coping with pain is possible through strategies that include deep breathing techniques; exercise (natural endorphins); online support groups; positive self-talk; and more. 
• Cooperate. The hardships of quarantine can be eased a bit by understanding, accepting, and calming behaviors.  Meditation, prayer, yoga, distraction, and other modalities are really effective treatments.
• Realize your power. This is particularly important. Read this article for more on this topic as well as access to an amazingly helpful online resource with other useful articles.  https://www.helpguide.org/articles/anxiety/coronavirus-anxiety.htm 
  
• Use common sense. Education about common sense ways to protect your health using time-tested remedies, herbs, and teas are plentiful online. But be careful - very careful - in what you choose to employ. First, take an oath as doctors have, to do no harm. For example, adding vegetables, chicken soup, and green tea to your diet is often helpful in keeping immunity strong, but don't try or purchase questionable advice or products. 
• Nurture normalcy. Busy yourself with finding what works for you and your family. Set up supplies and menu plans. Play with your children. Keep in touch with loved ones and friends through technology. Plant a garden, if you can.

This age will last as long as it lasts. Showing weakness and worry is human. So is surviving.