In these isolated days, I am certain that anxiety symptoms and trauma triggers are rising in frequency. Life presents enough challenges in “normal” times, but these are anything but normal times. Really, for all of us, our own minds are the biggest enemy we face. While the coronavirus is infectious and scary, the fear and isolation of how we need to live is making all of us a bit nuts. But for those with anxiety and trauma disorders, it can be a struggle just to get through a typical day. Add the fear and isolation of social distancing, and life becomes a living nightmare. I know because I struggle with Anxiety.
I can’t say that I offer any real solutions. For me, clearing my head several times a day through prayer and meditation keeps me focused on the needs of the day. Because I’ve tried to teach a “one day at time” approach to recovery and because I try to practice what I preach, I live each day as it comes. I do my best to neither get too far ahead nor look too far behind. But I’ve practiced this approach to life for so long that now that I haven’t really noticed too big of a difference in my emotional state. When the day’s news gets overwhelming, I stop and breathe and focus on my breathing for as long as a I can. I use my Garmin to measure my heart rate and try to consciously slow it down. I find that when I do, I am better equipped to respond to all the noise entering my mindscape.
Also, I consider myself very fortunate and blessed that love surrounds me. It is that love that drives my commitment to social distancing: I act as though I am infected, even though I’m not, and honor my friends and family by staying away from them, for now. I remain in constant contact, but my love for family, friends, and community motivate me to commit to what our elected leaders are asking. There’s no doubt that things can get hairy and scary, but I am blessed to have love in my life and it’s love that motivate me, not fear. When I become triggered, I remind myself of all the love in my life and I calm down.
Therefore, I can’t say that anything is easy these days. But focused prayer and simply counting my blessings are effective in managing any triggers I face. Yes, it’s a scary time. But if we remind ourselves in meditation of love, then I believe things can be manageable. It isn’t easy nor does it always work (when it doesn’t, I strap on my running shoes), but for now, I am happy that I get to live through history.
For more information and resources about Anxiety, please visit the National Association of Mental Illness.
Now if could only find some toilet paper….
