This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
On May 20, 2020, the world was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, with lockdowns, curfews, and social isolation becoming the new norm. For many, the mental strain of this unprecedented situation was just beginning to show.
At first, working from home seemed like a novelty, but as families lived 24/7 together, the reality of the situation set in. Redundancies continued to rise, spare funds were depleted, and uncertainty and fear grew.
Psychologists noted the mental health load on health workers who feared infecting their families, while others highlighted the torture for breadwinners who lost their jobs and struggled to make ends meet.
However, the strain of the pandemic was more universal, affecting people from all walks of life. It struck at the way humans navigate the world, disrupting education, careers, and entrepreneurial dreams.
As one commentator noted, the pandemic had moved us into an 'infinite present,' where our futures were uncertain and our investments in the future were 'pending.' This uncertainty sent people into a range of coping mechanisms, from trying to assess when life would return to 'normal' to declaring that nothing would ever be the same again.
Psychologists suggested that our ability to deal with uncertainty was tied to our own levels of insecurity and self-esteem. Those who were more insecure tried to read meaning into every random event, sometimes triggering severe depression and anxiety.
However, it's essential to remember that this pandemic isn't our fault. It's not a reflection of our worth or abilities. Instead, it's a global crisis that requires resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to find new ways of coping.
As we navigate this challenging time, it's crucial to free ourselves from fear, anxiety, regret, and self-recrimination. We are built to survive, and there is always a solution. By letting go of our burdens and embracing the present moment, we can find new opportunities and paths that we may never have walked before.
