Together at a Distance
In times of difficulty we often distance ourselves emotionally from others. Even from those who otherwise offer support and comfort. Often, we hope to protect ourselves, not be a bother or ease the burden of others by avoiding big issues. Usually, this happens on our terms and by personal choice.
As we are now being asked to keep our “Social Distance,” I want you to know you are not alone. We are together in this experience. Maintaining physical space is not just protective but can also be a show of affection for those around you. You can call it “self-care,” or just “alone time” but it is healthy, and necessary, right now. Still, physical distancing doesn’t mean we can’t be emotionally connected.
As many of us are feeling isolated and worried, here are a few helpful hints for dealing with uncertainty and anxiety…
1) These feelings are common – Many are feeling the same way and knowing you share these feelings helps normalize the experience.
2) Emotions are within your control – Lean in, accept them and allow them some space to pass.
3) Anxiety can be healthy – I believe anxiety is a good instinct. The mind and body are telling you to pay attention, identify stressors and find strategies that help.
4) Limit media and screen time – Even trusted sources might need to be buffered. Too much indulgence in negative stories may saturate or contribute to feeling overwhelmed.
5) Maintain routine – Structure helps settle us and gives us both a sense of purpose and control.
6) Focus on the moment – Attend fully to your feelings, sensations and environment. Often this attention to detail can center and calm us.
7) Think of the future – This too shall pass. Setting goals and imagining what may be (positively) can help to diffuse our current sense of being unsettled.
8) Hold close to others – Make intentional effort to connect (virtually for now) to those who you care for and who care for you.
9) Be kind – To others and to yourself. Take personal time when needed, share with others, and choose compassion. Empathy and understanding for others grounds us in the best of ourselves.
With wishes for good health and peace of mind.
Peter
Submitted by:
Peter Willig, LMFT, FT
Family Life Design
(786) 348-8360 (c)
Familylifedesign1@gmail.com
Peter Willig is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Fellow in Thanatology. In addition to working with private clients/families, he presents both locally and nationally on issues of grief, family/organizational systems and mental health. He also serves on committee and was past Board Chair for the National Alliance for Grieving Children (NAGC).