While many of us may still experience anxiety, depression and fear, you may also experience a shift toward pain, anger and discontent, said Mead. “While a year ago my clients were scared and unsure about the virus, their children’s jobs and education, my clients now feel a sense of sadness for what was lost,” she said, whether by a loved one who died, an important event that was lost or money or opportunities that disappeared with the economic crisis. “I am observing that the anxiety has turned more into sadness, hopelessness and anger,” she said.
Adding to the struggle is the fact that, for many of us, the restricted lifestyle still exists. This makes it difficult “for some people to overcome their pain, when nothing has changed much in everyday life,” said Jeremy Enzor, PhD, LCMHC, a clinical instructor in the psychiatric and mental health nursing program at Walden University.
What to do: People experience grief in different ways, but one thing to remember is that suppressing your emotions is not going to help, said Kahina A. Louis, PsyD, a licensed psychologist and CEO and founder of Strengths and Solutions, in an earlier interview with POPSUGAR. Instead, start by acknowledging your feelings and validating them. “Punishing yourself for feeling sad when ‘it could be so much worse’ just makes the experience worse now, introducing feelings of guilt or shame,” said Dr. Louis. Therapy and meditation can also help.
If you have lost a loved one, know that it will take time to reach a point where it can be accepted. The process may not be linear, so be as patient with yourself as possible. Sometimes, talking about the death of a loved one with friends or family can help, as can sharing stories about him, spending time with other people who knew him or even listening to his favorite songs. Remember and celebrate your loved one as you feel capable.