The Current Pandemic – a Catalyst for Bad Emotions
- Barbara StClaire-Ostwald
- May 17, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 11, 2024
As published in – Monda Vivo
In January 2020 when we first became aware of COVID-19 in Europe, most of us thought ‘it’s just a passing moment and it won’t last’. By February, we were told it was a worldwide pandemic, and by March we were Confined to our homes.
Over the last year the pandemic has had a dramatic effect on our lives. Globally, this virus has affected us all regardless of our location, gender, age, social status or culture. The devastation wrought by the pandemic has seen unprecedented curbs on social interactions, on our economies and how we work. But above all, it has had a marked and dramatic impact on people’s behaviour, moods and their mental health.
As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its second year, new and fast-spreading variants have caused infections to surge in many countries and consequently resulted in renewed and extended lockdown measures. Researchers worldwide have been investigating the impact of the pandemic on our mental health and well-being. More than 42% of people surveyed by the US Census Bureau in December 2020 reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, with data from other surveys suggesting a similar picture in many other countries across the world.
What are some of the unknown questions about our future? We do not have the answers yet, and quite possibly do not yet know what are the right questions to ask. But most prominent in my discussions with others are: how will we continue to work? Will the way we live change? Will the virus become a more permanent feature of our existence, and change the way we live for ever?
During a recent Coaching session, I was reminded of how the Kübler-Ross Curve demonstrates the profound effects on individuals experiencing often overwhelming and potentially life changing news; and how working through the stages of the curve enables learning and how to manage their emotions; challenges negative thinking patterns, improves relationship skills and reduces stress and anxiety – all of which generally helps to support and improve their mental health. I would encourage you to walk through this ‘Curve’; to personally ask yourself questions which require some form of answer at a deeper level. Perhaps what might be revealed will both inspire you and free you from the sense of having lost control, from doubting yourself, of being unable to cope with the unknown, the fear of change and having your most fragile spots exposed.
Photo: With Permission from the Elisabeth Kübler Ross Family Limited Partnership
“I don’t believe it”; “This can’t be true”; “It won’t happen to me!”; “It’s Fake News!”
Denial is a state of shock and often numbness which is a temporary defense mechanism for the time it take us to process news of change, before moving on to other stages. We don’t want to believe that the change is happening and often pretend it is not happening, hoping that it will go away.
“This isn’t fair!” ;“I cannot and will not accept this!”; “Why me??”
Anger: When we finally understand the gravity of the situation, that the change is real, we may become angry and look for someone, or something to blame. Some may take their anger out on themselves, whilst others may direct it at those around them. Some may feel angry at life in general, others may blame the economy. During this stage individuals tend to be irritable, frustrated and short tempered.
“Do I, don’t I wear a mask?”; “Should I, can I visit family and friends?”
Bargaining: When Anger passes, bargaining is a way of thinking about ways to postpone the inevitable and to find the best way of managing, negotiating the situation and reaching a point of compromise. The search for a different, less traumatic outcome can help to reach some form of relief, and a sustainable solution for those hoping to move closer to dealing with what they would prefer to avoid altogether.
“I’m so down, why should I bother with anything?”; “What’s the point of trying?”
Depression: At this point we become aware of the losses associated with the changes in our lives and what we have left behind. It is a stage where individuals tend to feel sadness, fear, regret, guilt and other negative emotions. They may display indifference, reclusiveness, push others away and have no enthusiasm for life. They may feel that they are at their lowest point in life, and not be able to see a way ahead. Some common signs of depression include sadness, low energy, feeling demotivated, meaninglessness.
“It’s going to be OK”; “I’m sure Science will find a way!”
Acceptance: is the realisation that fighting change is not going to make it go away. Perhaps for the first time we start considering our options. This can be a creative space to explore and look for new possibilities; to learn more about ourselves, and a way to find the courage that acceptance takes.
“It’s not the end of the World!”; “Life has a way of sorting these things out!”
Hope: is the belief that there will be a positive outcome from the change and that there is some meaning that will eventually be learned from the experience.
This is an important indicator of our ability to successfully navigate change. Even in the most difficult circumstances there is an opportunity for growth and learning.
I would note that using the change curve diagram could lead you to believe that the process of change is linear. It is not. It was designed to allow us to move between the stages. For example, you may feel that you have accepted change but you suddenly hear news which may move you back into Anger or Denial. Moving between stages is NORMAL! The only time for concern is if you find yourself stuck in Anger and Depression. If you find this happening to you, or to someone you know, pay attention to your emotions, help yourself and others move on. Consider speaking to someone or meeting with a professional.
Now that you have a better understanding of the Curve, here are some actions which have helped me personally, and which could help you manage your emotional cycle.
Working from home does not mean 24/7. You are entitled to take a break. Learn how to say NO. Do not feel guilty when you take a one-hour break. Go for a walk and switch off your phone! Clear your head. Make time for yourself. Work out a structure for yourself; we function better when we have a reason to get up in the morning. Shower! Don’t sit around in your joggers all day. Make an effort. Exercise if you can.
Say YES to family and friends but remember to use NO when you need to. Talk to your family and friends. Don’t ‘buy in’ to Social Media which tells you how good life is, how much fun people are having, how much money they are making – this is generally not actually true!!! Look outside your window, notice the changes in the sky. Notice the world around you. Be kind to yourself.
WHO: World Anti-Depression Day, 23 February
Approximately 350 million people in the world suffer from depression. It is most often diagnosed between 20 and 40 years of age. It affects women twice as often as men. We should also remember that depression does not spare doctors, psychologists, nurses, paramedics or students. We should take care of ourselves and our surroundings, look at each other with attention and sensitivity, and have the courage to react.
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