We’re six-ish months into everyday life during a pandemic, racial tension is boiling over, and we’re in the midst of a horrible election cycle. It’s an understatement to say that life is hard right now. I’ve heard from countless people with headache disorders and other chronic illnesses who are experiencing an increase in symptoms. Depression is creeping up for many. Even my healthy loved ones are feeling frayed.
I found myself thinking of you all as I listened to Brené Brown’s latest podcast episode, On My Mind: RBG, Surge Capacity, and Play as an Energy Source. She talked about the frustration and despair that’s rampant right now. She referenced an article I read last month and found really helpful for understanding my current stressors, Your ‘Surge Capacity’ Is Depleted — It’s Why You Feel Awful. In addition to explaining the “why,” which I always love, the article has good coping tips.
So how are you doing? How do you feel physically? Emotionally? What coping skills are you using to get through this difficult time? I understand if you don’t want to share in the comments (though you can post anonymously), but you’re welcome to send me an email if you’d like to catch me up.
If you’re curious, I’m doing OK. I’m heartbroken by the number of people who have died because of how the country is handling COVID. I’m disheartened and worried about race relations in the US (while at the same time have some hope for change). I’m anxious about the election and sad about Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death. And yet, I’m holding up fairly well. Here are the high points:
- The isolation is surprisingly fine for me. I think that’s because I’ve been housebound before, so I’ve already developed coping skills to manage it. Also, last time I believed it would never end, while this time I think it will.
- When the weather and migraine attacks allow, I’m getting outside for walks. That’s a huge benefit to my mental health.
- While my migraine attacks are worse than they’ve been for a few years, I think they’re improving now that monsoon season is over.
- My husband is my favorite person to spend time with and we’re having fun at home together. We’re able to be in separate spaces during the day, so I don’t even have to listen to him on Zoom at work (which would definitely stress me out).
- My mom and I are working on an oral history project. We’re having great conversations every week and I’m learning a lot about her and our family.
- I have regular video chat dates with friends to do puzzles (not puzzles with pieces—more like logic puzzles). I love both the people and the activity.
- I’m doing more advocacy work and getting excited about writing again. It feels great!