Lockdown 2:0 – Lockdown loneliness, love or hate!
The pandemic has created a divergence of experiences due to socioeconomic status as we are all in the storm but in different boats with varying resources. Individuals that have been furloughed, the unemployed or those struggling financially due to their industries being halted or restricted such as those in the hospitality, leisure and travel industry may experience mixed emotions due to no longer having the security of a regular fixed income and the uncertainty regarding gaining employment due to the volatile economy and employment opportunities.
Individuals that were previously shielding may be feeling more vulnerable and unprotected as they are expected to continue working whilst receiving less support than at the onset of the pandemic in March .
Individuals living alone may be feeling more isolated due to the novel restrictions although being able to form a bubble can contribute to improving Individuals mental health through experiencing greater connectedness and social support which counters the social isolation and potential loneliness.
The ONS : Opinions and Lifestyle Survey: Personal and Economic Wellbeing in Great Britain (June 2020)suggests that life satisfaction has diminished along with feeling that the things we do are worthwhile. Its likely that this will continue to rise during this second lockdown due to further restrictions which are compounded by shorter days and autumnal weather and the decreased likelihood of spending time in the garden and nature as occurred during the first lockdown when the conditions were more favourable.
I am noticing that many employees are experiencing burnout, stress and feelings of depression due to homeworking and feeling isolated. Many employees are missing connecting in person with colleagues and having in person support from Management which is more difficult when not in the office.
Children and young people are feeling apprehensive and anxious regarding their academic performance. Consequently many young peoples mood has plummeted and a sense of hopeless has contributed to a rise in self harming and suicidal Ideation.
Coping Strategies for Lockdown 2:0
- Accept and don’t resist the restrictions by focusing on the reality that they are temporary and are to benefit the health of the nation and to save lives by controlling the spread of COVID 19.
- Let go of the need for certainty and accept that its impossible gain certainty due to the nature of the pandemic. Focus on areas in your life where you can establish certainty such a creating daily routines which create safety and predictability which are useful for children in particular.
- Find advantage in adversity by keeping a daily journal and recording some opportunities within this period. Identifying opportunities will enhance optimism and resilience which is important during a pandemic.
Listen to our latest Rivers to resilience podcast :Episode 10 : Lockdown love or hate for additional coping strategies
Martina Witter
Accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist