Left Behind in the Pandemic

2020... the year a pandemic was declared. It was scary and unknown, but friends and family, and even strangers rallied together, at a distance, to keep one another safe; and those who were considered higher-risk for serious illness or death, were the ones we gave up “normal” life for.

Over 2 years later, we saw a shift – the world wanted normalcy. People saw the light at the end of what had been a very dark and unpredictable tunnel. People deserved to see the light, to have some hope, to be able to get back to a semblance of the life they had known; after-all, it had been a tough two years for everyone.

We can move on!

…well, not all of us.

For most people, “post” pandemic means traveling, visiting with friends, going to concerts and events, parties, work gatherings, and not having to worry about precautions. However, for a small group of people it means being extra cautious, feeling alienated and isolated, learning to ignore the looks and comments when keeping oneself or loved ones safe, saying no while having to defend the decision, and fighting to participate in life without compromising that life. People have their reasons for maintaining the pandemic safeguards, whether they are immunocompromised or have someone in their lives who is, or if they are feeling anxious about returning to life as it was pre-pandemic, peoples’ reasons are valid.

The world moved on. It had to.

People should be happy, hopeful, and embrace life. But, let’s do so while remaining considerate and empathetic towards those for whom nothing changes. It was, and continues to be, about sustaining life. Not everyone gets to be excited about “normalcy” for a variety of different reasons.

If you or someone you know is struggling to find balance in this post-covid era, here are a few strategies that may be beneficial. 

Establish a Routine: developing a daily routine, as well as a sleep routine, can help with providing a sense of order and purpose.

Maintain Contact: Some great ways to connect with others include, zoom parties, phone dates, texting, intentional social media use, outdoor visits – have a barbeque, outdoor movie, build a snowman!

Consider Counselling: While friends and family can be supportive, we often keep things to ourselves to minimize discomfort or worry for those closest to us; a counsellor can provide a space wherein one can share and feel without worrying about the impact.

Practice Gratitude: A gratitude journal can help you become aware of, and appreciate, the good things in life. Appreciating the positives can help reduce stress.

Intentional Focus: focus on the things you can do, and find acceptance for the things you cannot change.

Change the Scene: One of the safest environments for those who need to remain cautious – outdoors! Being in nature is proven to decrease stress. Going for a walk, reading in a park, or simply going for a drive can help combat cabin fever.

Learn your “Why”: “Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any ‘how’.” Whether your ‘why’ is because you’re trying to keep yourself safe, a loved one safe, or you simply do not wish to get sick, it is yours to know, accept and live by. It can be lonely but having confidence in your ‘why’ can be your strength.

Life may not be how we want it to be, and it definitely can be more difficult than we imagined it to be, but it’s full in the moments spent being present. In the laughter. In the love. In our connections.

There’s honour in just being here. Your strength is witnessed in your choosing to show up every day, even if you wish your experience was different.

Savita Jaswal, RSW
Walmsley EFAP