I learned a long time ago that fear is crippling; a virus that spreads panic, haste, and disorder. My earliest observation of fear; its power and contagious affects; was in 1992 when Hurricane Andrew threatened and hit South Florida. People were in disarray, purchasing everything in the grocery stores, overconsuming, and not caring if another family household had enough supplies to get them through the storm’s affects. When people are in panic mode they become more selfish. Even at an early age, it was easy to realize, the news wanted people afraid. It went beyond the means of providing the information that would encourage simple preparation, and displayed the panic; doing nothing to discourage it. That is what I most remember from the hurricane. Today, not much has change when threats to humanity emerge. With added access to the news, which wants you afraid and not just informed; panicked and not just prepared, you’re tempted to act unlike yourself. Frustrated, annoyed, paranoid, antisocial, or angry are just a few of the widespread emotions felt during situations, such as, a pandemic.
It’s only been a week and a half since most cities have advised that all stay at home to slow the spread of the Coronavirus. Already I’ve found myself at times panicked, anxiety stricken, highly stressed, and succumbed with thoughts. I’ve cried, laughed, and stared at my dog endlessly. I’ve binged watched shows and overly exposed myself to social media & news outlets. I’ve felt depressed, angry, frustrated, and trapped. Extended social isolation is not a good thing. What worsens it is there has been no announced end. What heightens it is the panic from people, the hoarding of all supplies from the grocery store, and the constant talk. There is no escaping the topic. With emotions high, I worry how long I can mentally last this abnormally long period of social distancing. It’s funny because I am naturally a loner but you tell me not to be around people and all I can think about is doing the contrary.
In order to maintain sanity during this time I’ve found doing more meditating, reading, self reflecting, and writing to be helpful. I’ve also found taking several breaks through out the day to do a quick exercise and/or take a walk outside, soothing. Avoid overeating, excessive binge watching, and constant news exposure which can be distress causing. Also, limit the amount of time spent on social media which tends to be heavily opinionated and, much like the news, negative. Surround yourself with like minded people; people that won’t add to your stress and anxiety
These are some trying times. I don’t agree with the way this pandemic was handled and believe the aftermath will have a greater impact than the virus itself. Affects such as economic turmoil, rising unemployment, and inflation might occur following. Furthermore, I believe that the virus was spearheaded by way of fear. Nonetheless, I try to hold a positive outlook.
Many are throwing around the slogan, “we’re all in this together.” While we are all going through this ‘stay at home’ and ‘social distancing’ together, in many ways we are internally battling this apart making the endurance difficult. In wake of this pandemic I want to encourage all to stay grounded and prayerfully we will all come out on the higher end.
Till next time; maintaining peace of mind,
Alisia Latoi
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