Wellness Turning full circle

In anniversary reaction, emotional outpourings related to major life incidents — not necessarily traumatic — repeat themselves periodically on an annual basis; if processed adequately, these could lead to mental healing

date; birthday of a deceased loved one; the start of the pandemic.

Why do people experience it?

An anniversary reaction can occur because the date of the original trauma (or some other trigger) activates a traumatic memory. ries triggered by subtle reminders or just out of the blue while doing some work. It can also present as:

Grief and sadness Memories and vivid dreams Anxiety and irritability Frustration, anger and guilt Avoidance Remembrance

Does anniversary reaction always have to be related to trauma?

Not always. It can be a remembrance of someone you had a great relationship with, even just the birthday of a beloved.

What is Covid-19 anniversary reaction?

The start or the peak of the pandemic led to dread for everyone. So many people were confined to their homes, many struggled mentally, lost their jobs and even their loved ones. The time around the peak death toll worldwide was another time when the world mourned at the same time and everyone fended for their safety.

Last year this time

Your loved one may have been sick, hospitalised or succumbed to COVID-19

You may have been yourself

You may have faced a panic situation in order to fend for your own health or a loved one’s health

Had trouble arranging resources for COVID-19 health issues.

All of these can trigger an anniversary response.

vvvvThe good aspect of the anniversary reaction

An anniversary reaction could be a roadway to your emotional healing. Listen to your body and your emotions. Process them adequately.

What to do?

sick

Acknowledge: Understand that this is a reaction that can affect anyone

Be prepared ahead of time: Try to explore ways to stay meaningfully engaged and be surrounded by people who can support you. If you wish to celebrate a deceased, go ahead and do it in your own unique way

Allow: Allow yourself to experience all emotions. Instead of suppressing, express them.

Speak to a specialist: Learn techniques like EMDR, and CBT to overcome the trauma response Be gentle with yourself Validate: Validate how far you have come from the original stressor and appreciate yourself for it.

vvvvAn anniversary reaction could be a roadway to your emotional healing. Listen to your body and your emotions

Send your questions to help@dreradutta.com