For anyone who hasn’t heard of, or been influenced by me, I would like to introduce myself, if I may. My name is Covid, Covid Nineteen. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. You may know me by my more familiar alias, “Corona” or Covid-19. I’m under the assumption that the entire population has heard about me by now, but If you haven’t, I will give you an opportunity to get to know me on a more personal level.
I come from a line of predecessors who, although some may consider powerful, have absolutely nothing on me. Sure they have been able to do their job effectively, but my work has become known worldwide.
My identity is one of a thief. I have come to steal peace, joy and livelihood, to kill the weak and vulnerable and to destroy families, education and the economy. I have taken away your sense of control. You aren’t able to work, spend time with anyone outside of your household or go to public places. You always look over your shoulder to see that no one comes too close. You become angry and despondent towards others even though they are doing their best to accommodate you. Compassion has dissipated and you have lost the ability to trust anyone. You break down with overwhelming emotion and seek comfort only to find none, simply because everyone is in the same boat. You begin to self medicate and as a result are worse off than you were before.
I am at the core of this havoc and I’m not going away any time soon! The world has granted me access and I have taken up permanent residency. I have instilled such a degree of fear, anxiety and confusion in you that you believe that everyone and everything around you is a threat. I am everywhere, on people, in people, on shopping carts, food packaging and in the air that you breathe.
Of course, I can’t take all of the credit. I owe a great deal of gratitude to the Government, News Reporters and Social Media who have contributed to successfully promoting and reaffirming my mission. You are being conditioned without your knowledge to accept the parameters that have been mandated, because the world as you have known it will never be the same.
Don’t be fooled into believing that this will soon come to an end, the “second wave” of my destruction is just around the corner! I’m confident that, in case that slips your mind, you will be provided with ample reminders in the very near future.
My name is Covid, I am a thief, what have I stolen from you?
Does this resonate with you, do you feel like something has been stolen from you?
We have all been impacted by this pandemic in one way or another. Our security has been threatened to such a degree that, without a support system, some are finding it difficult to function in a healthy manner. It has unleashed fear; fear that, if not addressed, will remain long after the virus has gone.
Exposure to constant negativity, such as regularly listening to news reports on the rising number of cases and deaths, does not serve as a benefit to anyone, but rather leaves us vulnerable to all sorts of threats. It is similar to going into work every day, and although you are doing your best, hoping that your employer will notice, all you get is criticism, day in and day out. Your ability to cope in this type of environment becomes increasingly more difficult; you begin to become despondent and lose hope. Your judgment becomes clouded and the ability to think clearly diminishes. When life becomes overwhelming, surround yourself with people and things that are positive and encouraging. There is always a way out of every situation — find someone who will help you to recognize that.
Prolonged anxiety and stress have been known to affect us mentally, emotionally and physically. Our immune system weakens, leaving us susceptible to long term health problems.
For those of us who may be wondering what this means in layman terms, here are a few examples:
- Mental stress can manifest itself in ways such as headaches, decreased energy, digestive problems, acne, insomnia, chronic pain {back pain} and frequent bouts of sickness.
- Emotional stress is associated with mood swings, lack of concentration, habit forming addictions/behaviors and irritability.
- Muscle tension, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, increased blood pressure, stomach discomfort and bloating are related to physical stress.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to first and foremost see your physician to rule out other health issues, as these can signal other underlying medical conditions.
Doing so will ensure that you are not misdiagnosed and receive appropriate treatment
If in fact your symptoms are stress related, it is imperative that you find coping strategies to improve the situation. Talking to someone is the first step to recovery.
One overall final thought:
We need not fear the “second wave,” but rather the source that is making such prediction! Take heed to what you listen to for all information is not accurate!
Author’s note: If you are looking for someone to talk to during this difficult time, feel free to contact me at 613 633 7674. Anonymous calls will be accepted. Please be assured that all calls and information will remain confidential. For the duration of the month of May, consultations will be free of charge
About the author: Brenda Strack, a Valley native, is a certified counsellor in Barry’s Bay practising as Madawaska Valley Counselling Services. She uses Integrative Counselling to tailor a therapeutic approach specific to the needs of each individual. For more information see mvcounselling.com or email mvcounserv11@outlook.com
