Navigating New Mandates

If there’s been one consistent thing about the COVID-19 global pandemic, it is that nothing has been consistent. The last 2+ years have seen a revolving door of information, scientific discoveries, policies, and restrictions. The rest of the world hasn’t kindly gone on hold, either, and violence, natural disasters, and financial crises rage alongside the chaos and confusion that is an ongoing public health crisis. 

It’s exhausting. Pandemic Fatigue is a natural and expected response to a prolonged public health crisis.

If you’re in Ontario, there have been a lot of changes recently, and this trend is being shared around the world. Restrictions are generally lifting more than they ever have throughout the pandemic. It is a time of discomfort and concern for some, hope and relief for others. And you know what? Both sides of the spectrum are okay. If the recent announcements are negatively impacting you, here are some coping strategies that can help reduce anxiety, anger, and discomfort.

Do Your Homework

Before you begin to stress about how these changes might impact the lives of you and your loved ones, make sure that you first truly understand what these changes actually are. So much of the news we consume comes from second- or third-hand sources, and often the facts get blurred or lost in translation. So make sure to do your research and ensure that you are as informed as possible about the situation.

Focus on What You Can Control

Unfortunately, there are a lot of factors in a pandemic that we simply have no control over. We can’t control how the government decides to respond or if people follow the published guidelines. We can’t control if we get sick or to what level. We can’t control what else goes on in the world alongside COVID. If we just focus on these challenges, it can be overwhelming. We can feel anxiety or anger in public settings or with people we disagree with. But feeling helpless and defeated is only going to make things worse.

So, instead, try to turn your focus back to what you can control. You can make your voice heard to your local representatives and with your vote. You can engage in open and honest communication about your wants, needs, and concerns with loved ones who may have different views or comfort levels to you. Focus on the protective measures that you are taking and the actions that you are doing to keep yourself safe. 

Mindfulness & Gratitude

Turning our attention to the present moment can help ground us in what we can control and in our immediate environment, which is usually a lot different than the “doom and gloom” we see in news media. Gratitude practices, such as daily or weekly journaling, can help remind us that there is also more to our lives than just a pandemic. There are small joys to be found in each and everyday, and the more we open ourselves to that possibility, the more likely we are to find them.

Self-Care

Continue to engage in self-care! Connect with the people who make you happy, respect and validate your thoughts and experiences, and support you. Make time for your hobbies, rest, and whatever you need to do to ensure your needs are met.

Remember that this, too, shall pass

The pandemic and its related mandates can feel all-consuming, but it’s important to remember that our current “norm” is not a permanent reality. Four years ago, if you had told me I would be wearing masks in a store to avoid getting sick, I probably would’ve raised an eyebrow and thought you were reading too much dystopian fantasy. Now, in 2022, it is the expected social norm. Just as there was discomfort and an adjustment period in 2020 as Canadians became required to adopt this practice, it is normal that this same difficulty is occurring as we once again undergo a major social change.

But this pandemic will pass and society will move forwards. That will involve change and uncertainty, but it is important to keep in mind. The world as it is currently will not stay this way forever. 

Be Empathetic & Respectful

Regardless of where your comfort level sits, can we all agree right here and now to just be kind to one another? We need to be open to communicating, debating, and sharing our thoughts and experiences with one another. Community is what is going to get us through this crisis. So no matter where you sit, let’s all be kind, empathetic, and respectful to each other. We are all just trying to do the best we can.