We need to be proactive and talk with our children about racism, protests, and riots. The death of George Floyd has impacted us all.  Covid-19 created a time of unexpressed feelings and fears for many, and now a wave of grief and frustration has arisen after the heartbreaking murder of George Floyd at the knee of a police officer was caught on tape and broadcast across the world. 

After months of isolation we are beginning to emerge again.  The patios are beginning to open and many of us are vying for appointments with our hairdresser.  Transit and traffic are getting busier, and the hustle and bustle is just beginning again.  Some of us are excited about the return of valued services and social opportunities while others are fearful and mourn the loss of our quiet and reflective time.  This is a time of embracing restored freedoms and dealing with anxious feelings about what will come next.   

We are all feeling the wear and tear of almost two months of self-isolation and our new Coivd-19 reality. Although we understand there is value in our family time and important lessons to learn – we are all still feeling an exhaustion and a wish for things to be back to normal.  Things will never be normal in the way they were before – but as humans we will find ways to adapt and bounce back from this challenge.

Here are some tips on how to mange your relationship, your work and your family in this new Covid-19 reality.

Our world is in a unique shared space. During this time of COVID, there are no differences or preferences. The diversity within us actually has merged into a realm that is equal to all humankind. During this time of isolation, this arena can be even more exacerbated for Supported Individuals. Few things to consider are the following: remote support, expansion of consent in counselling, mindfulness and appropriate psycho-education; limits and considerations.

During COVID-19 our normal grief and mourning rituals have been disrupted. Memorial services are for the living so we can share our grief and find comfort in our community.  The reality is that there will always be births and deaths – and the cycle of life will continue through COVID-19.  Although some of the deaths may be related to COVID-19 most will not be – but social distancing and COVID-19 will prevent us from gathering for funerals, celebrations of life and memorial services in the way we did in the past.