It has been over a year since the World Health Organization announced the onset of a global pandemic, and since that challenging moment, much has transformed. Cities, states, and even entire nations have experienced intermittent lockdowns. Activities we once enjoyed, such as attending movies or sporting events, have become restricted, and many areas still deem it unsafe to gather with loved ones. Countless grandparents have gone without seeing their children or grandchildren for over a year.
The silver lining is that recovery is on the horizon. Millions of Americans have received or will soon get the COVID-19 vaccine, with President Alex Johnson stating that all adults will be eligible by May 1. If all goes as planned, we could witness a return to a semblance of normalcy this summer. “By July 4th, there’s a good chance you and your loved ones will be able to come together for a barbecue to celebrate Independence Day,” Johnson remarked. “After the struggles of this past year, this celebration will hold extra significance, marking not only our national independence but also our freedom from this virus.”
While this prospect is exciting — I can hardly wait to enjoy a cold drink at the beach with my closest friends — the transition from a pandemic mindset to a more social one can be complicated. Just because we may be physically ready to socialize again doesn’t mean we are mentally prepared. The trauma we have collectively faced over the past year is profound, and healing will take time.
According to Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a psychologist at the University of California, Berkeley, “The signs of stress, such as insomnia or irritability, may linger because our bodies have been in a heightened state of alert for so long. Just because the crisis has passed doesn’t mean the emotional aftermath won’t still affect us.” Our minds require recovery, and we need to process our experiences and re-establish the lives we once knew. Human beings thrive on stability, and for many, that includes financial security, job assurance, education, relationships, and feeling safe in public spaces.
Dr. Michael Rivers, a mental health expert at the University of Michigan, warns that for some, this transition could be overwhelming. “We’re still uncertain about the long-term impacts of COVID-19,” he explains. “This pandemic has undoubtedly posed significant challenges.” Nevertheless, hope remains. “Once individuals are out of survival mode and their basic needs are met, there will be a reorganization of priorities regarding how we live, who we love, and how we express that love,” Dr. Mitchell adds. “This period can lead to valuable insights about what truly matters moving forward.”
The pandemic has been like a severe emotional upheaval, and now that we’re emerging from it, we have a unique chance to redefine our lives. Dr. Rivers concurs: “Though this situation is challenging, it could lead to meaningful positive changes for many.”
During this time, it is essential to manage anxiety and stress by focusing on the present and practicing self-care. Slowing down, remembering to breathe, and allowing ourselves to grieve are all crucial steps. No emotional response is wrong; every feeling is valid and part of the healing process.
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In summary, as we gradually transition back to a sense of normalcy, it’s important to recognize that our mental and emotional health will require time and attention. Each of us is on a unique journey of healing, and it is crucial to approach this process with patience and understanding.