Possible steps we have to take due to Covid-19.

Previously I posted a similar article for stroke/TBI survivors and their families (https://theglassishalffull.weebly.com/melbourne-iii-grief). However, the illustration below is suitable for all sorts of situations. It is not only about stroke or disability, illness or a virus, it is about a change of lifestyle. We don’t like change. You probably heard people say something along the lines of “rather the devil you know, than the devil you don’t know”. Meaning, that whoever says this does not consider the status quo ideal, but improving it is not worth the risk. 

It also means that we are prepared to put up with a limited amount of inconvenience, as long as we are in control.

At the moment we certainly are not in control. People all over the world are in a holding pattern. A wait and see situation. We simply don’t know what’s going to happen.

Our fear of this uncertainty is evident. 

Our lives have changed. We are missing friends and family. Our comfort zone is reduced. We had to change our daily routine. We are grieving.

 Grief, this is what the illustration below is about. To avoid misunderstandings, I want to make it very clear that there is no particular order; nor does a person have to go through all stages, but we all go through some of them. Outside factors and a person’s resilience influence how much time (or no time at all) one spends in different stages. It varies from individual to individual.

Denial – We don’t like bad news. Is it surprising then that we try to ignore it? At the onset of this pandemic it is understandable. How someone still does it after plenty of warnings and self-isolation, is simply irresponsible.

Anger – This can range from a mild frustration to domestic violence. Not only here in New Zealand has domestic violence increased, but worldwide (yes, there are still some assholes out there). Anger is a sign that the person does not deal well with the situation. Unfortunately, it is often directed at the person closest.

Bargaining – This means that whatever higher power a person believes in, they make promises in prayer. This could be something like: “Oh ……., if I don’t get the Corona virus, I promise I will never…

Depression – There are enough problems, enough negative thoughts floating around. It is important to stick to a routine. Several little problems grow into a big one. Until it seems insurmountable. When a problem arises, deal with it immediately. Don’t carry negative thoughts around with you. And, most of all, don’t be too hard on yourself.

Acceptance – Accept change. Accepting also means you soften the blow. Like it or not, but Covid-19 will, most likely, influence your life for a while. However, the restrictions we face at the moment, pave the way to a better future. 

Stocktaking – This is where you take a step back from your life and look at it from a distance. Note what’s good about your life, and (be honest) what’s not so good; needs improvement. Sure, there are inconveniences at the moment, but it could be worse. Most of us still enjoy the basics. Spare a thought for those refugees, for example, who had to endure the European winter without the most basic of necessities.

Adopting – Make the new circumstances your own. Don’t fight them! Own them!

Prepare to live with them! Now, you have a second chance.

Adapting – You are in control. You decide how you want to live post-corona. We all have to learn how to live in the future. Yes, it is a challenge, but a good one.

From here it can only get better.