3 Things You Can Do to Cope Better with Covid-19

Trauma never really goes away. It comes back at different points in our life through two channels: vulnerable times and triggers. Let's talk more closely about one of those.

A “vulnerable time” is a non-everyday event: a mammogram, job interview...and yes, a pandemic like Covid-19. While living through a pandemic is the opposite of a non-everyday event, I count it as a "vulnerable time" because it's unusual and yet our daily reality. And it’s bringing up a lot for many people who are trauma survivors.

You might feel more anxious. Or at loose ends, unmoored or unable to settle. More lonely than usual. Sleep might be more difficult. Some of your regular coping techniques may not be working as effectively. This is all normal given the current situation. None of these side affects are bad. They are hot spots to be aware of.

So what can you do?

1) Remind yourself that you're safe. And tell yourself what you are doing to continue to keep yourself safe. Being socially distant. Wearing a mask. Staying close to your right people. (Your right people always, always reinforce feelings of safety.)

2) Pay close attention to what your body is telling you. Need a rest? Take one, even if it's 15 minutes. Feeling alone? Text or message one of your right people. Does something feel uncertain or off? Again, reach out to one of your right people. I wrote here about getting a second opinion.

3) Make a list of four things that you control about your life. Keep them simple. "I can control what I can eat and drink," "I am in control of what time I turn off my light at night," "I can control who I allow in my social media feed." Reminding us of what we can control expands feelings of safety.

The bottom line is to be gentle with yourself right now. In times of stress, it’s important to amp up self kindness. To hold off on new projects or big risks. To take it slower.

What are you noticing right now about your own life? How are you coping with this vulnerable time that we are in? Leave a comment below. And thanks for being here.