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.  

Easter will be both the same and different

Easter has traditionally been associated with fun, egg hunts, and family gatherings. Some things will be different this year, and some will stay the same. There will still be joy, egg hunts and chocolate!   Families will still share food and gather at the table – but it will be on a smaller scale and the table will only include those who are living in the house.  With so many people baking and cooking their way though self-isolation there is sure to be some fabulous meals ahead for us this Easter – but this year we will not need the extra leaf at the table.  We will still gather, but many of our interactions will be through phone calls and digital platforms.