We are at a time of great pandemic risk. We think we need to respond to this accordingly, but do we? I am not sure anymore, the efforts of the Government does not seem to be enough if we are to look at the increasing number of COVID-19 cases. Mental health is also at a decline. We think it’s going to be over soon, well, maybe not.
But we are resilient people – we get up when we fall; we smile after we mourn. We know we will all come out stronger when this pandemic ends. We hope.
Keeping Sane Amidst COVID19
I am a solo parent to a 3-year-old; I work from home and have to juggle many roles day-to-day. I also work part-time as a college instructor. Aside from my family and friends, my students would always come to me when they feel stressed or anxious over life in general. Now, with all that is happening during this pandemic, I get bombarded with messages asking for advice. I used to be a school counselor, so you get the idea of why people come to me. I listened, I offered my time. But it was so hard to keep my self sane during this time.
So one day, I lost it. I got tired, scared, and anxious myself. I feel threatened by the growing number of COVID-19 cases around our vicinity and elsewhere. The news was just plain terrifying. I had to shut off, I zoned out. I stopped checking messages and had to deal with my own emotions first so that I can be there for others again.
I got so afraid that I’d get it or my son would be sick, I was scared to the point of paranoia. My fears turned to anxiety and frustration. I could not sleep at night, I would be angry at people, and I would cry when my baby's asleep.
During a crisis like this, we need to be able to stay calm and collected, because we want to become part of the solution instead of the problem. We need to keep our sanity in check so that we will be able to act accordingly during uncertain times.
We all have very valid reasons to feel anxious during a pandemic, but to keep calm, we
should always remember to pause, pray, and reflect. So I did.
How I Got Through My Situation
I was feeling overly stressed and overwhelmed. I was consumed with fear and anxiety. I was sad and impatient, and I was so fearful of the future. I was scared for me, my family, and my little boy. I was getting angry at the news, at people, I can’t seem to find good with the Government’s efforts. I was screaming at my child – I was not the person I used to be.
I knew I had to help myself to be able to bounce back and be able to take care of my son, and the people I love, so I did what I could to stay calm. Read on as l share with you the things I did to stay calm during this pandemic.
Things I Did To Help Me Keep Calm During The Pandemic
Things may be uncertain, and we feel out of control, but the best way to fight this off is to focus on what we CAN control. Why trouble ourselves about the things beyond our control, we are only adding to our anxiety when we try to mind everything. Here’s what I did instead to look out for myself.
1. I took all precautions to not acquire the virus, and I followed the quarantine protocols in my area.
Our first line of defense against viruses is health and hygiene. It is essential to practice healthy habits and good hygiene to lessen our worries during the pandemic. Following community quarantine protocols is also something that I did. Knowing that I was doing all that I can to stay safe helped me calmed myself at this uncertain time.
2. I kept myself abreast of what the virus was about and what was going on around me.
I knew I needed to be in the know, but I also tried to avoid stories that are too depressing, as well as fake news online. I only made good use of relevant information about the pandemic to keep myself informed and protected. I urge everyone to please do not participate in sharing fake news because they only cause fear and unnecessary stress to everyone.
3. I acknowledged my emotions and asked for help
I was scared too, I am terrified until now. I have a little boy I have to protect, and that makes it scarier for me. I connected with people whom I can share all my fears about, and I continuously ask for help when needed.
It is ok to acknowledge when there are things we cannot handle anymore, so share your burden to the people who love and understand you to just lighten off that load.
4. I Contributed to the Community
We all need to heal as one, we all need to come out stronger when this pandemic ends. Help where and when you can.
Lessons I Have Learned About Life During The Pandemic
There are so many, but here are a few of the highlights of my many realizations:
Family is Everything
I learned that tomorrow is never promised, and that we should cherish our families more than anything else. The pandemic has left so many families grieving for their loved ones who suffered and died of the disease. If you are fortunate enough to still be with your families, don’t forget to treasure them and make them feel loved and important.
If you have reached to this part of my blog post, pause for a while, and reach for your loved one. Tell them that you love them and that you care for them.
Be Kind
One of my favorite singers, Jewel, sung, “in the end, only kindness matters.” I think kindness during this time, and every day, will indeed go a long way. You do not need to have lots of money to be kind. You can give a single bread to a hungry person if that is all that you can afford, go do it. Offer your listening ears; be a friend; do random acts of kindness.
I am now able to share sound advice to my family, friends, and students again. I just needed to ensure that my own mental health is taken care of.
With all that is happening around the globe, being kind, even if it goes unnoticed, will be remembered by those whom you have blessed it with.
Be Grateful Of The Little Things
You are reading this because you are alive. Gratitude is always good for us! Gratefulness helps us focus on positive emotions, and also makes us become calmer persons. You won’t need to lift a finger or exert a muscle to be thankful.
Say a prayer of thanks today and always.
Hope For Us All
At this most uncertain time, my love for my family, especially my son, is what's keeping me to move forward. I am hopeful that the virus will play out soon. I hope that we will never have to deal with another pandemic in this lifetime again, but while this one is still in our midst, let’s all remember that this, too, shall pass.
This story is an entry to ComCo Southeast Asia’s “Write to Ignite Blogging Project”. The initiative is a response to the need of our times, as every story comes a long way during this period of crisis. Igniting and championing the human spirit, “Write to Ignite Blog Project” aims to pull and collate powerful stories from the Philippine blogging communities to inspire the nation to rise and move forward amidst the difficult situation. This project is made possible by ComCo Southeast Asia, co-presented by Eastern Communications and sponsored by Electrolux, Jobstreet, and Teleperformance.
Great content ❤
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteI feel the same way during this pandemic. Thanks for sharing I learned a lot how to deal with stress and anxiety during this trying times.
DeleteI've learned a lot and get inspired. Thank you for food of thoughts Maam.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome! Thanks for dropping by.
DeleteVery inspiring po �� In the amidst of this pandemic, physical health is as important as mental health. Fear is everywhere but the ability to cope up with it is a great blessing.
ReplyDeleteIndeed! Our mental health matters. I'm glad this has inspired you :)
DeleteIts a wonderful read.
ReplyDeleteThanks for these reminders.
Thank you so much, stay safe always.
DeleteI love the blog ma'am.. 😊 Praying for all of us, all these unfortunate event is only a one chapter of our life.. This too shall pass.. Godbless po. Stay safe! 💜
ReplyDeleteThank you. May you always be blessed!
DeleteThank you for sharing your light and optimism.
ReplyDeleteThank you for dropping by my blog, stay safe!
Delete"Today I refuse to stress myself out over things I can't control and change.”
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you were able to straighten up and calm yourself again. You've got nice tips and insights. Keep on inspiring and writing.
Thanks, Steph. Take care, and yes, I will try to blog more :) thanks for dropping by!
Delete"Today I refuse to stress myself out over things I can't control and change.”
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you were able to straighten up and calm yourself again. You've got nice tips and insights. Keep on inspiring and writing.
Thanks, Steph. Yes, I try always to focus on what I can control. I hope you are keeping well yourself!
DeleteHello, ma’am Chelle! Reading one of your blog posts really helps a lot especially during such trying times. As humans, we can only take so much which is why it is so important to check on ourselves, to take really good care of ourselves in order to then be there for others and offer help whenever we can. I am grateful for the tips you share as they aid my concerns and enlighten me.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Hazel. Stay positive, thanks for your support!
DeleteA great content indeed! Thank you Ma'am Chelle for this, for sharing your thoughts and tips/reminder that could really help us to keep calm and to be positive despite of all the difficulties that we are facing today. God bless you, ma'am! And keep on writing ❤
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, I will try to write and share more. Thank you for your thoughtful words. Love and light!
DeleteTimely, relevant and inspirational content. Let’s all be grateful for the little things 💜
ReplyDeleteTimely, relevant and inspirational content. Let’s all be grateful for the little things 💜
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mavs. This inspires me to write and share more content. Indeed, gratitude is a blessing in itself.
DeleteNice blog. very inspiring one :) Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, your words are very much appreciated. Stay safe too!
DeleteThe role of a counselor and an educator is hard enough already, let alone a mom. To think that those roles are being played by just one person is unbelievable. I salute you Miss Chelle for being courageous enough to admit that sometimes, however strong we are, we still have moments where we need to pause. And we should not feel bad about it. Instead, we utilize those breaks in order to bounce back stronger. Enjoyed this blog!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Rich, for the affirmation. I do need people to understand what i am going through every now and then. It is not always easy, but like always, I get by. :)
DeleteThe whole world is healing and us. You've contributed already for those people who need some uplifting words by creating this blog and sharing some inspiring thoughts. Keep Safe, stay positive and we will all get through this.
ReplyDeleteThese are very uplifting as well. Thank you! My heart is filled with so much hope because I know we will come out stronger after all these.
DeleteHugs mommy Chelle 💕 thank you for the tips. if i may add, looking forward to seeing again my family, relatives, friends and most especially my husband keeps me calm during this pandemic 😉
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your family
Hugs! (virtual, especially coz of social distancing, haha) I'm so glad you have a hubby to keep you sane at this time. Stay well! May you always be blessed!
DeleteSo inspiring 😍
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteIt is indeed imperative to be disciplined to the protocols that the LGU's implement. That's the start, being disciplined at home then in the community. :)
ReplyDeleteIt all begins inside the home, that's true! thanks for dropping by.
DeleteI am amazed that you have that willingness to listen to students. I agree that our mental health is very important these days. I also battle anxiety and loneliness with communication to loved ones and prayer. God bless us all. This pandemic will be over too.
ReplyDeleteYou're not alone, you can always reach out here if you need someone to talk to. And yes! I am super hopeful that pandemic will soon be over. Stay safe.
DeleteMental Health is greatly affected by this pandemic. We could be affected without knowing it since many of us keep our brain stimulated with digital media. Agree on acknowledging what you feel. Being sad and anxious is valid - since we all stand on the vague situation with many negative forces are pulling us apart, however, wallowing will not help and we should keep moving forward.
ReplyDeletePrecisely, we try to always keep on moving forward. Thank you for the affirmation, Jan. I hope you're keeping safe as well.
DeleteNo one is prepared for this pandemic, and not everyone easily adjust to this kind of unexpected change However, we learned so much, that we will be more cautious and prepared including mentally when another pandemic happens.
ReplyDeleteIndeed! I just really hope we do not have to face another one like this in our lifetime. You stay safe, Blair.
DeleteWe all react to certain situations differently so your reaction is valid. And I agree we need to fully acknowledge our emotions, seek help if needed. This pandemic has taught us so many things and it made us re-evaluate or priorities in life.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the affirmation, Dianne. I hope you are also keeping safe.
DeleteWow, this was very raw, powerful and vulnerable. Super proud of you mommy and praying for strength for you, your family and everyone you love. Theyre lucky to have you in their lives. Remember to take care of yourself as well okieee. ❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteThanks, Christian. We do what we can with what we have. Your stories are also truly inspiring. Stay safe always.
DeleteI feel the same way, lalo na isa ako sa mga nawalan ng work during these trying times, kalmado lang ako sa labas pero sa loob loob ko puro takot, lalo ang hirap maghanap ng trabaho ngayon
ReplyDeleteMumshie!!! I can refer you to a writing job. let me know :)
DeleteWhat I appreciate about what's going on right now is the kindness & generosity that families (and even strangers) has shown to others. Donations pouring in to help those in need. And of course, our frontliners who have been courageously battling against COVID-19. And for that, I'm extremely grateful. ❤︎
ReplyDeleteYes, there's hope in kindness. And I am grateful too. Love and light!
DeleteSuper inspiring mummychele! Glad that you were able to find ways on how to stand up and stay sane to be positive during these trying times. Hope your child and family will take a look on this time and be inspired that you were able to pull it off and no matter what hurdles you may come across with in life you can overcome it together.
ReplyDeleteThank you for well wishes. We try to be tougher than these tough times! May you always be blessed. Stay safe!
DeleteNice post! Napaka-inspiring and very timely siya! Praying for all of us. Matatapos din ang pandemic na ito at magiging normal na din ang lahat. Stay safe always and God Bless!
ReplyDeleteThanks! Praying too. Stay safe din kayo ng family mo.
DeleteThank you for sharing your story of hope, Chelle. It is very much needed at this time when hopelessness and helplessness surround us. I also deal with a roller coaster of emotions so knowing that it's something that I share with others makes the situation more bearable. May you and your family always stay healthy and happy!
ReplyDeleteYou stay happy and healthy as well, thanks for the kind thoughts.
DeleteA great post! Very inspiring. A lot of people need this in these trying times. Continue inspiring , motivating and helping others by sharing thoughts like this.
ReplyDeleteThanks for dropping by, mummy Anna!
Deletehi momma. im happy you got through what you are feeling, im pretty sure you are not alone. always always ask for help if you think you can not do it anymore, there will always be that one helping hand that will help you through. kaya mo yan, we will all get through this soon!
ReplyDeleteThanks, momma. Yes, salamat for the reminder. I am super grateful of my mom and siblings who are always willing to help me din, This pandemic, we were closer than ever. Virtual hugs sa inyo ni Coco!
DeleteI was so relieved when I came to the point where you acknowledged your emotions. That's really important for us in order to move forward. Without acknowledging our fears and anxieties, we deprive ourselves of a need to be helped and comforted. Biggest hugs to you and to your son.
ReplyDeleteThanks Wendy, it also felt liberating to be able to express those emotions. Hugs back at you!
DeleteI love that you mentioned that every time we wake up in this time of pandemic is already a blessing, and yes, since I read your post, it means that I'm alive too :) God bless chicha and continue to inspire people with your writings!
ReplyDeleteThanks Mommy Donna, you are one of my blogger inspo. You are one of the blessings that I have!
DeleteHi Chelle! I like how you elaborated honestly and with transparency your fears, worries and thoughts during the pandemic. I am glad you are taking it with positive stance.What matters is how we regard these obstacles as stepping stones to improve ourselves, our relationships and views about life.
ReplyDeleteAlso joined this contest :) Good luck to us Chelle!
COVID19, despite the worries it has caused all of us, has taught us a lot of things. I wish you are keeping well yourself! all the best sa atin. :)
DeleteYes, i think that being grateful for the little and big things is the antidote for anxiousness and worry. This pandemic is seriously getting to me as well, but we ride it out...we can do this.
ReplyDelete