Navigating this pandemic has proven to be incredibly challenging! Based on recent observations, it appears that adults in the 30 to 50 age bracket are feeling its impacts the most. While it’s true that everyone is experiencing some form of hardship, it seems my generation is particularly vocal about the difficulties we face.
Here are a few reasons why:
- Concerns for Aging Family Members: We’re deeply worried about our parents and grandparents. The thought of losing them during this high-risk time is frightening. Many of our parents have opted to continue living life fully, which adds another layer of anxiety for us.
- Impact on Our Children: We feel sorrow for our kids—vacations missed, disrupted education, and lost celebrations. While we mourn for ourselves, many friends express sadness over the memories we wish we could create for our children.
- Unprecedented Times: For years, we’ve lived without experiencing anything close to this. Very few people alive today can recall the 1919 flu pandemic, making this situation feel surreal.
Despite these struggles, social media often presents two opposing narratives about how we should respond to this global crisis:
- “This is the worst thing ever! Stop changing your lives because of it!”
- “Stop being sad! Embrace your ‘new normal’ and find happiness.”
I can empathize with both perspectives. For many of us, if we haven’t faced racism, extreme poverty, or persecution, this pandemic may be the most challenging experience of our lives. It’s completely valid to feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. However, I also see my children adapting to the situation, finding joy amidst the chaos without my guidance. They’ve shown me the importance of positivity.
In times of upheaval, it can feel endless, but this too shall pass. When someone encourages us to make the best of a bad situation, they are often trying to help us release unrealistic expectations and gain perspective. One day, this pandemic will be just a memory.
Here are my personal reflections that might resonate with others:
- It’s perfectly okay to feel upset or exhausted. Mindfulness practices remind me to acknowledge these emotions, sit with them for a moment, and then let them go. If they begin to interfere with my sleep or relationships, it’s crucial to seek help.
- I can’t expect my family to have the same experiences we had before the pandemic. It’s time to stop pretending we aren’t living in an extraordinary situation. Instead of stressing about how to keep my kids entertained, I should check in on them. If they’re doing alright, I can take a moment to express gratitude and enjoy a cup of coffee. If they’re struggling, I’ll seek help. For those in between, I can make a list of enjoyable activities that can still create cherished memories, like hiking, baking, or teaching our dog new tricks.
- I don’t need to maintain strict lockdown measures at all times. This summer, we were able to enjoy a camping trip and visit family. However, when COVID-19 cases surge, it’s essential to be responsible and help flatten the curve. As of October 2020, hospitals are overwhelmed in places like Wisconsin, and Ohio is not far behind. While my kids may be disappointed to miss a party, it’s a necessary sacrifice, and we’ll find alternative fun activities instead.
This winter will undoubtedly be tough, and we’ll continue grappling with the pandemic into 2021. Although I’ll miss the holiday gatherings and travel, I take comfort in the fact that we have a puppy at home who brings us endless joy. Without this pandemic, I might never have convinced my husband to get a dog.
For more insights on navigating these challenging times, check out this other blog post on our site. Additionally, if you’re looking for information about at-home insemination, resources like this one can be invaluable.
Potential Search Queries:
- How to cope with pandemic stress for parents
- Ways to create memories with kids during COVID-19
- Mental health tips for adults during a pandemic
- Navigating family dynamics during COVID-19
- Activities for kids at home during social distancing
Summary
Adults aged 30 to 50 are particularly affected by the ongoing pandemic, facing unique challenges as they navigate concerns for their aging parents, the impact on their children, and the strangeness of unprecedented times. It’s important to acknowledge feelings of sadness and frustration while finding ways to create positive memories and maintain perspective.
