Diversions necessary to survive Covid trauma...

Doing things that provide a sense of accomplishment or help you meet your goals can all feel rewarding. I am grateful to everyone about what I choose to do with this gift of a reboot

After living in the fear of Covid-19 infection for so long, the virus has transformed our lives significantly with most of us adopting new routines and making changes in our priorities in daily life. This has happened mainly with those who are suffering from the devastating effects of the pandemic, especially in post-covid panic.

There is no surprise that we are in the midst of many problems including anxiety, depression, stress, fatigue, frustration, anger, grief and other psychological issues created by this deadly invisible virus. Some people may find themselves in survival mode, gathering information and resources necessary in their journey to the normal.

For many others, learning to relive with family members, colleagues and friends is not that easy. The most common emotion faced by all is fear. It makes us anxious, panicky and can even possibly make us think, talk or do things that we might not consider appropriate under normal circumstances.

As I mentioned in this space in the recent weeks, I survived the ‘pandemic’ trauma that I have undergone during my admission in the hospital. I realise that transitioning to a new way of life is not a simple process and it can take time to adjust to the idea of seeing people and going to public places again.

Being around people again, managing relationships or looking into each other’s eyes or engaging in a conversation will never be the same as it used to be.

What I have learned, in fact, trying to overcome the emotional impact is engaging myself in activities that keep me busy.

As I adjust to yet another big change, I know it’s more important than taking note of how I am feeling.

Even as full recovery takes a long time, we should not exert ourselves too much. For most people, some balance of fun, productive, social, active and relaxing activities in life is key to feeling like your different needs are being met. While the return to the normal life becomes more of a reality, don’t idealise post-pandemic life.

As we are aware art and literature are frequent keystones for overcoming trauma. So, I turned to books that give me comfort and solace in addition to writing reports to keep my profession alive. I know it will take some trial and error to find the balance of activities that provides that sense of reward. Yet I am happy that slowly, I am coming back on the track.

Doing things that are pleasurable, that provide a sense of accomplishment or help you meet your goals can all feel rewarding. I am grateful to everyone about what I choose to do with this gift of a reboot.

My wish for you is that all of you who are struggling with the monster virus find some peace in the chaos, and learn something about yourself and the world around you.