Unprecedented times.
It is crazy to think that at the beginning of 2020, we had no idea that COVID-19 was going to be on our radar. I would never have thought I would be quarantined in my house, limiting visits with my close family, not working, minimizing trips to the grocery store and target (is this a cruel joke?). I never would have thought that so many people in the United States would be at risk of getting sick with an illness that is spreading like wildfire. That healthcare workers including my close friends and family would be concerned about not having the proper protective equipment to keep them safe while they are treating others. The things that we worried about at the beginning of January seem so silly now. Crazy how quickly things can change.
Half the time I feel like I’m living in the twilight zone. Experiencing history without leaving my house. Time seems to stand still (although that may be a product of being stuck at home with two littles!!) It has been a difficult but bitterly sweet time. I am so thankful that I CAN stay home with my little family and keep them safe from this virus. There are not many other healthcare providers that are able to do that at this time. I’m thankful that my husbands job has shifted to being completely remote and that he does not have to travel. The days are passing ever so slowly with teething and potty training and lack of sleep. But so far we are all healthy. And I hope it stays that way.
I have had a lot of time to think, and I have been thinking a lot about mental health. This is an unprecedented time. When have we ever been asked to not socialize and stay in the confines of our home? Limiting human interaction is unnatural. Maybe you live alone, are concerned with your investments and the uncertainty that this time brings. Maybe you’re home with your 3+ kids trying to work AND homeschool. Maybe you become completely anxious watching the news and overwhelmed with it all. Maybe you are a healthcare provider and are worried about contracting COVID and bringing it home to your family. Whatever your situation is, please take time to acknowledge your mental health. Acknowledge that although you can’t be around anyone else, we are all in this together. The best thing we can do is stay home when we can and keep ourselves and others safe. If you are feeling overwhelmed go for a walk. Get outside. The fresh spring air will help. Get up. Get dressed. (Talking to myself here!!). Do things that are intentional and bring you joy. This too shall pass.
This time has made me realize how much I need something to keep my mind busy. I have spent the majority of these past few weeks or so trying to keep my girls busy and out of my husbands way so he can work. I’ve had very little time for myself and when I have had some time, I do a quick workout or I sleep. I’ve felt guilty for being able to stay home while my friends and other healthcare workers are on the the front line managing this situation. So today, I decided to put on some Mr. Rodgers (thank goodness for him right now) and write this blog post/journal my thoughts. I plan on writing more, maybe taking the time to really do some continuing education while I have the time, and try to do some self care everyday. This is going to be a marathon and not a sprint, and we really do need to take care of ourselves during this time.