COVID-19: Adapting to a New Normal

By Monisha Rey, Clinician, Pathways

"I want things to go back to normal" is something most people have either thought or said since we have been instructed to stay at home. The world is a scary place right now, and we aren't sure what's in store for the future. Have you thought about what "normal" might look like once the world is "open" again? According to Kaiser Health News, Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer at the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, said reopening will mean going not back to normal – it will be trying to find ways to allow people to get back out to do things they want to do, and business to do business. We can't pretend the virus is just gone; there are precautions we will have to take in this new "normal world."

What does that mean for your mental health? When the world does reopen, making sure to take extra care of yourself will be key. Finding a new routine that incorporates good physical and mental health practices can be challenging but not impossible. Incorporating meditation, yoga and regular exercise can have positive effects on your overall well-being. Checking in with family and friends and talking about your feelings can also allow you to feel connected and remind you that you are not alone.

Though COVID-19 has stopped us in our tracks and caused tragedies for many loved ones, this time of reflection has inspired us to find new ways to feel good. Many people have started new hobbies they weren't sure they would have liked prior to the pandemic.

What are some things you have done during this quarantine? Did any of those activities feel good? This pandemic has forced us to come out of our comfort zone. Take a moment during this forced slowdown to hone in on those hobbies and activities that made you feel good. Try to make them permanent and incorporate them into your routine and everyday life.

Picking up new hobbies, practicing self-care, maintaining regular exercise, continuing to practice social distancing and taking a daily vitamin are just a few things that can be done to ensure a smooth transition to "normal."