Lessons From Lockdown
Clinical psychologist Dr Rachel Andrew believes that we can all emerge positively from lockdown, even if our experience has been very sad.
“A lot of the things people focused on achieving are skill based, which can be rewarding,” she says. “However, living through Covid has meant that some people have suffered loss and bereavement, deep concern about others and also themselves, with very real worries about what the future holds. At some point in every traumatic situation we tend to stop and think, what might I have gained or learned here? It’s always helpful to try and answer that, especially when you’re dealing with something you had no control over.”
Covid is a universal trauma but we all had different experiences of it. So too will be our responses to the possibility of getting back to normal, though in the main the prevailing feeling will be one of happiness, even if our memories of the past year might include great sadness.
“It’s a very positive time,” says Rachel. “Throughout lockdown we looked after and supported each other and now we’re looking forward to enjoying so much we took for granted. We have choices again, so we feel strong and independent.”
Look back at this time and see if there’s even one good thing that’s come of it, from reconnecting with family to finding a place in your community.
Focus on the choices you have now, rather than constantly re-living the hardest times. Things are different in terms of treatments, vaccinations and also knowledge about the illness. Despite all we’ve gone through there is hope. Develop any positives – make a point of continuing the good habits you developed, whether more family time, healthy eating and exercise. Expand on hobbies and time spent totally on enjoyment, not just filling the days.
Talk it out, good and bad. Many people will feel stressed, fatigued and in some cases, grief stricken. Talking helps you cope, look back with loving nostalgia and look forward with strength.
Enjoy everything.
All the little things we took for granted, especially hugs. More than ever, you know who and what matters to you so make the most of them.