Behr Psychology therapists recognize that many across the country consider we are right now living in unprecedented times.
From technological innovations that ravage our attention spans to global crises that seem to be never-ending, there are genuine emotional stressors that have had immeasurable impacts on the collective mental health of society.
That stress, pain, and personal crisis is valid. It’s authentic to feel anxious or overwhelmed. And that’s why it is more important than ever to practice mindful coping strategies, seek opportunities for personal growth, and maintain a positive and balanced well-being in the face of countless external challenges. A key resource to overcome these challenges is effective therapy.
Unprecedented times means an uncertain outlook, and a lack of certainty triggers heightened anxiety and stress, which in turn foments unsettled feelings of losing control. Like a traumatic response to personal loss, this is a grieving process for many. While uncertainty with the world around may not be the same as losing a friend or family member, loss can manifest in many forms, from personal, to societal, to economic. All of these grieving feelings are valid, and together they create overwhelming feelings of social isolation that in turn lead to personal instability and vulnerability.
These feelings are of fear — fear of the unknown and the changes it may, or may not, bring about without little to no personal control.
That underscores why self care and mental health maintenance is so critical. Self care mitigates stress, regulates emotions, and improves overall mental health and resilience. Linked to physical health, the mind-body connection is valid: exercise, nutrition, and sleep are foundations of personal well being. Coupling positive physical habits with mindfulness practices is at the forefront of taking personal action to prioritize your health.
However, there are times when taking a deep breath, exercising, and eating right isn’t enough – sometimes we all need support. In these times, your first resource is your village; remember to stay socially connected, whether in person or virtually with friends and family members who alleviate stress, not trigger it. Focus on what you can control, not what is outside of your grasp. By establishing healthy routines and refocusing on healthy activities and hobbies, you can structure a calmer, more mindful approach to your day-to-day life that mitigates much of the uncertainty causing you grief. Stability is key, and over time that stability becomes normalcy, which will help you take back control of your emotions from unrelenting outside stimuli.
Nevertheless, professional support is both a valuable and valid resource in unprecedented times.
Reaching out to Behr Psychology may be the most effective solution to regaining control. The stigma of reaching out for help is still very real, and it’s a roadblock to finding your own personal peace. Mental health struggles are also amplified in times of crisis, and that’s why normalizing conversations around mental health is so critical.
Seeking help demonstrates a personal strength and conviction that should not go unrecognized. It highlights a commitment to not only yourself but your community. You’re seeking your best self and striving to share that best self with those around you. That’s the foundation of a supportive environment, not just for you but for your friends, family, and neighbors. A true forward-looking approach to not just coping, but thriving, in an unprecedented time.
Ultimately, resilience is key. It is not just about avoiding challenges, but adapting and growing through them so that you can continue to navigate difficult times. Rather than a burden, challenges foster personal growth and self discovery. Continuing forward with healthy practices, from goal-setting to mindfulness, builds not just short but long-term resilience.
All of that to simply encourage you to be your best self and commit the time and energy toward the tried and true strategies that will help you feel better, day-by-day, in what may feel like unprecedented times.
It’s about finding hope and peace amid uncertainty. You are not alone in feeling this way, and there are specialized professionals ready to support you on your personal journey. Taking straightforward steps to improve your physical and mental health are critical, but sometimes you just can’t do it alone.
Behr Psychology therapists are available to guide you through challenges and provide the structure you need to achieve your potential in the face of what may feel like unprecedented challenges.
Want to hear more? Reach out and connect with the right person who will help you on your journey.
