The year 2020 has brought forward the need for man to adapt to a new normal. In the last couple of months, the entire world has overwhelmingly been fighting a dangerous virus, otherwise known as COVID-19. From it, we have experienced great loss, restrictions due to lockdowns, fear of the unknown and pushing of boundaries. Relationships were tested and mental states were pushed to their limits. Whilst having one or two months off work was a luxury for some, others struggled. How did it turn into a virtual competition of who did the most home workouts and who baked the best banana bread? Meanwhile, those individuals suffering from a mental illness, or those who are considered 'vulnerable' by society and even parents alike, were all battling their own demons. Lockdown became the new fashion of TikTok videos and a period dedicated to self-reflection and self-improvement. Whilst I have no problem with the above and may have even participated in the fact, it is also important to acknowledge that the lockdown was marked by fear, loss, vulnerability, distance, solitude, redundancy and death.
It is okay to not have enjoyed being stuck at home for two months. For some, 'home' may be a place representing peace, tranquility, love and family; whilst for others it symbolizes fear, isolation, abuse and conflict. Moreover, mental illness has its own triggers. Hearing so much talk about death is extremely difficult and exposure to it may increase suicidal thoughts for those battling depression. Also, seeing the actions taken on sanitary precautions may increase obsessive thoughts and fears for those with OCD. Meanwhile, individuals suffering from an eating disorder can slip into old behaviours at the thought of people stocking up on large quantities of food. Therefore, we need to be aware that the lockdown brings with it its own ramifications and values unique to each individual.
Fundamentally, I believe that the lockdown has been a period of coming to terms with what is happening in the world now. It is okay to not be happy, to not be smiling and goofing around. We are fighting a pandemic which is having serious effects on our economy, on our way of life, none of which is an easy pill to swallow. People are losing their jobs, some have no income to feed their families, and to make matters worse, we do not know when life will go back to 'normal'.Â
Consequently, we need to adapt! And by adapting I do not only mean wearing masks and gloves, and installing plexiglass at retail outlets to avoid contamination, but rather to be more compassionate both to ourselves and others. Be compassionate with yourself in understanding that we are living a new 'normal', that there are a lot of uncertainties which we have no control over, and it is okay to worry, to panic, stress and cry. Be accepting that we are all enduring the same storm, but ultimately, we are all in different boats, each with our own journey.
Sophie Bonello Du Puis
Gestalt Psychotherapist
M. Psych (Gest)