How to remain positive in times of crisis

It is fair to say that the state of the country – and indeed the world – is changing every day. The onset of sanctions, quarantines and a constant bombardment of rolling news is challenging every last drop of positivity we all have. The next few weeks will be remembered in the same fashion as the Blitz, sadly however, the ethos of making sure we are all okay as a society seems to have lost emphasis.

Who can let the endless reports of panic buying pass by without a sense of disappointment and concern? The media are not filling our time with any positive spin, so it is easy for anyone – with or without a mental health concern to hold some degree of anxiousness.

What the experts say

As Anxiety UK’s Nicky Lidbetter explains, the fear of being out of control and unable to tolerate uncertainty are common characteristics of many anxiety disorders. So it’s understandable that many individuals with pre-existing anxiety are facing challenges at the moment. “A lot of anxiety is rooted in worrying about the unknown and waiting for something to happen – coronavirus is that on a macro scale,” agrees Rosie Weatherley, spokesperson for mental health charity Mind.

People deal with anxiousness in different ways, some use exercise as a form of distraction, or being outside; this is becoming increasingly difficult at a time when we have to self isolate. Socialising and meeting friends at the pub are also now on the ‘best not to’ list. It is easy to see how being stuck at home doesn’t sound that appealing. What happens if the schools close? Whilst closures may sound effective in principle, working parents will no-doubt have concerns as to how are they going to pay the bills whilst they take time off to look after the kids.

Surely, the key now is to stay positive, particularly for the benefit of children who have seen the news, or have heard conversations and may not understand what is happening. Reassurance from adult to child is often overlooked as young minds may not know how to approach the subject, so it is important to take the lead and discuss the situation in a positive frame of mind. Children don’t need to know every change as it happens, they just need to know that they are cared for and they have someone to turn to when they are confused or anxious. Positive reinforcement at bed time is a great start – and ensures that little people have the best nights’ sleep the can. This time of year there is also a visible change in the season – plants and trees are coming to life and more importantly the sun is out. A discussion in the morning when your child wakes up about what they can see out of the window is a brilliant distraction for them, this also reaffirms your calming influence. Whilst it is tempting to have the news on to stay updated, be mindful to ensure little people are not in earshot.

Time to limit the news

Being in control of the rolling news channels is important for adult well-being as well as children. With the current situation where it is, it is easy to think you need it on throughout the day. The reality is, the information is churned over and over throughout the day and constant viewing makes for depressive responses. Be firm and confident and only check in twice a day; you wont be missing out on key information. In fact, what a great time to revisit uplifting classic films. Everyone has a choice to accept and embrace the situation, or let it consume and further depress them.

With time on your hands make a point of checking a vulnerable neighbour – it doesn’t have to be a face-to-face conversation, I’m sure an elderly person would appreciate a hand-written note through the door. We are in this situation together; whilst we may be contained within the home, a call to friends and relatives who you haven’t spoken to for a while might just be the comfort they need.

Let’s not forget that at time of crisis, there is always a keyboard warrior who knows best. This is the first mass-scale situation whereby social media has been readily accessible. I choose the light irony and humour approach however this is not always to everyone’s liking. I have seen many posts from angry people who say things like “I don’t want to see…” or “Unless you’re an expert…”. People who use these phrases spread paranoia, are negative and divert attention – away from a positive response – toward themselves. I believe we all have a choice as what to post and what to take on board – it is after all called social media…

Stop & take a breath

Being in the moment is really important. A lot of action is happening around the world and you can take a moment to pause and reflect.

How do you feel?
Why do you feel the way you do?
How can you change the way you feel?

A little bit of mindfulness right now can only be a good thing; use your technology to find an app and keep track of your breathing, heartbeat and mood – It’ll take your mind off everything else.

Active Listening Therapies is open for business. Louise and I believe if people want to address their worries and emotional well-being and are fit enough to visit the clinics in Newark and Nottingham then we will be there for them. We are also available on the telephone and encourage anyone wanting to discuss future appointments to call 01636 671039 and leave a name and contact number.

We’re all in it together, we can help each other.

Duncan