I admit I am terrible at posting blogs. Normally it’s because of the normal things that fill our days: work, relationships (marriage and parenting/grandparenting in my case), travel, etc. But then came COVID and I admit that writing a blog has been the furtherest thing from my mind!
I was visiting my sweet mom who was turning 86 when my son texted me to suggest I stock up on canned foods because this ‘virus’ was getting more threatening. I seriously thought his cell had been hacked. I was totally unaware of the looming crisis facing us all.
So then it hit and it HIT, right?! How has it been for all of you?? Are you able to keep working/shopping/exercising/parenting/caring for aging family members? Are you suffering? Business as usual? Wearing a mask?
I am a devoted homebody so I’m not too bothered by being at home. I’m lucky that all of my clients have embraced doing our sessions remotely……..I’m lucky/blessed in this regard. But my son and his family had JUST moved far from us and THIS is where I suffer. Obviously there is no discussion of flying out to see them, it’s a personal decision but having just come through cancer treatment, flying is not for me. The cancer discussion is for another time.
My husband and I spent long hours in discussion and research and decided to take 2 trips in our self-contained RV. We are, even as I write, basking in the beautiful scenery of New Mexico having spent a week of socially distanced visits with family/store employees and lovely other campers. Next month we will make the long trek to see our family in South Carolina and will try to distance ourselves as best we can.
As a therapist, I concern myself with the emotional needs of my clients. Most everyone seems okay. Inconvenienced, yes. Scared, afraid so. Tired of cooking, yup. Uncertain of what the future will hold, definitely. What I would offer is this: don’t try to hide from your fears and concerns. Share them if you can, journal, chat, make those phone calls, keep exercising, and reach out for therapy if you need extra help! These are unchartered waters and we need each other to navigate. Take good care!