The New Normal
Many of us are navigating a new normal in these COVID-19 times when gathering with others is considered a risk. Challenges that come with isolation are especially true if you are healing from past or present trauma.
Here’s why.
Human Connection
Humans are wired for connection. When you are isolated from others, you begin to feel lonely and disconnected, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Depression and anxiety may disrupt your sleep. You might find yourself sleeping more or less than you were prior to the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sleep disruption also contributes to depression and anxiety and so you may find yourself in such a cycle when you are cut off from interacting with others.
Social Interaction
Interacting with others and socializing help those recovering from trauma manage their moods in better ways. One of the hallmarks of trauma is “feeling helpless during distressing events beyond your control.”
When you begin to feel anxious about keeping yourself and others healthy, trying to keep up with the fast pace of the news cycle, and beginning to experience depression and anxiety, a lack of support and comfort from others can make it feel like this is your past trauma repeating itself.
People who have suffered past trauma and then find themselves isolated can experience more flashbacks, anxiety, or reminders about the event that occurred; they can find it difficult to feel safe and supported due to being more isolated and alone.
Increased Loneliness
Increased loneliness can make it harder to feel safe and secure, especially during a pandemic when there are real risks and concerns four your safety. Interacting with others and having a sense of belonging and care can drastically reduce feelings of stress, overwhelm, depression, and anxiety.
While you might not have control over the pandemic, you can still safely connect with others to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Many groups are having virtual check-ins and meetings (check out NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness).
You can always get on a video chat and have a virtual coffee break with a friend or family member. Lastly, don’t forget to care for yourself. Make sure you are getting sleep, eating, and moving a little bit throughout your day.
If you find yourself unable to “shake off” feelings of sadness, fear, loneliness or are experiencing anxiety, you might benefit from talking with someone such as a trusted friend or family member, spiritual advisor, mentor, or counselor.
You can navigate the new normal. You’ve got this!
Tonya Molnar, PhD, LMHC, MHP specializes in insomnia and sleep health, trauma, and chronic pain and illness therapy with additional training in CBT-i for insomnia and CBT for chronic pain and illness management. As she completes her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision, it is her honor to serve clients in Washington State using a telemental health approach at this time.