Category: Mental Health

2/27/2021

HOW TO HANDLE COVID-RELATED LIFE CHANGES

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How to Handle COVID-Related
Life Changes

COVID-19 has changed lives all over the world. Since the pandemic began, you've probably had to adapt some
of your everyday habits, like how you workout or where you shop. Handling all these changes is stressful.
As Psychology Today explains, humans are naturally resistant to change.

COVID creates an especially tricky situation because it's very much beyond our control. My Grief Connection highlights some of the common emotions people are grappling with due to "Corona Grief," like difficulty concentrating and headaches. Luckily, there are resources available to help. The below guide covers life changes you may be experiencing as a result of COVID-19 and provides tips and tools on how to handle them.

You've lost your job.

According to USA Today, the unemployment rate is historically high. If you've lost your job, look for temp work
to make ends meet while you line up your next opportunity. The Work at Home Wife lists work-from-home
jobs that even provide paid training, from companies like Hilton, goFLUENT, and more.

You might also seize this opportunity to start your own business. Forming a limited liability company (LLC) allows you to enjoy tax advantages and protects your personal assets in case of liability claims. You don't have to pay an expensive attorney to file the paperwork to start an LLC. Business formation services are an affordable alternative.

You're spending more time at home.

Stay-at-home orders and concerns about infection have had people spending more time at home in the past year.
If you're starting to feel cooped up, it's time to make a change. Eliminate the negative energy of the past, and usher in positive vibes by cleansing your home. Get rid of clutter, open the windows to let in some fresh air, and smudge the room with sage. You can also get some affordable aromatherapy candles with soothing scents like lavender and lemongrass to create a more peaceful atmosphere.

Your social life has taken a blow.

As people spend less time outside of the home, they are also experiencing a decrease in social interactions. According to Medical News Today, humans are a naturally social species, and maintaining an active social life promotes physical and mental wellbeing. Look for new ways to reconnect with friends and family now that your social opportunities outside of the house have become more limited. You might watch a movie or television show with a pal using a tool like Netflix Party, for example, or have a "family dinner" via Zoom with loved ones who are located far away.

You're struggling to take care of yourself.

You may find it more difficult to take care of yourself as you deal with COVID-related change. This is understandable, especially if you are facing mental health hurdles like depression. As Harvard explains, depression changes the way the brain works — even causing cognitive impairments like memory loss, in some cases.

Motivating yourself to eat right and exercise in this state is tough. To cope, seek support. Make meal prep a family activity instead of doing it alone, for example. For exercise, try lining up a workout buddy and joining a Zoom fitness class. Cnet offers a list of five great options.

You've lost a loved one.

Finally, one of the biggest uncontrollable changes COVID may have introduced into your life is the loss of a loved one. If you are struggling with grief as a result, it's important to seek help. Look for support groups in your area via platforms like My Grief Connection. If you feel yourself struggling emotionally, don't hesitate to seek therapy. Platforms like BetterHelp allow you to get the assistance you need virtually and are more affordable than in-person counseling. You shouldn't have to grapple with grief alone.

The changes brought on by COVID-19 aren't always easy. However, they can be managed with the right resources and support. Hopefully, the above guide has given you some inspiration on how to get the support you need.

My Grief Connection provides grief services for children, teens, and families. Whether you are dealing with loss or COVID grief, find out how we can help.

Author Bio:
Jennifer Scott is a lifelong sufferer of anxiety and depression. A single mom, she writes about the ups and downs
of her mental illness on SpiritFinder.org. The blog serves as both a source of information for people with mental
illness and a forum where those living with anxiety and depression can come together to discuss their experiences.

Connecting You to Grief Resources in the Treasure Valley & Beyond

How to Handle COVID-Related​Life Changes

Mental Health Awareness Month

Sara J. Cobb

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