Hi
I really hope the COVID-19 pandemic is not as severe in your area as it was when I wrote last month. Some places are beginning to come out of 'lockdown'. However, you may still be experiencing the unwanted, even unpleasant restrictions associated with the 'lockdown'. Whatever your current situation, my topic today may be one that you can easily relate to: how to cope effectively when the control rug has been pulled from under your feet.
During this Health Awareness Week, it is important to take care of your physical, emotional and mental health. Let's face it, there are many things in life that we cannot control. We cannot control how someone else thinks or reacts to a situation, or to us. However, we can control our reactions to all the things we cannot control.
Contextually, many relationships have been severely tested and put under great strain as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic. When things we feel we should be able to control, such as the human right of freedom of movement and the right to meet with family and friends as we please, have been taken away from us, not only can our physical bodies be adversely affected, but we can experience mental and emotional distress. The situation may be made worse if we find ourselves in the same restricted space for longer periods with someone who is perpetrating abuse on us. How do we ensure we remain safe and sane?
The primary response is always ensure you are physically safe at all cost. Set boundaries as far as possible to maintain a safe distance from any form of danger. Becoming overwhelmed can lead to shallow breathing and even panic attacks. Manage your breathing by taking deep breaths. Take time out to think through what is happening around you and to you so you can logically and positively move forward. Whether it is a family member, friend, the Police, Domestic Violence helpline or a Counsellor, make a call to get the right support you need. Get help as soon as you need it. Do not suffer in silence.
Until
Jo-Ann Rowland
