The ABCs of psychology: P is for post pandemic

Posted on: Staff Writer

From edition: July 10 2020 Strathmore Times

By Rachel Dundas, R Psych, CPT Times Contributor

Wow. What was that? It feels like coming out of quarantine is the end of a spring storm. The rain has stopped pouring, the sun is starting to poke through the clouds and life is beginning to resume its natural rhythm. The stranglehold of COVID and the upheaval of our lives feels like a blur.

For many of us, we are ready to move forward and face a new day. For a large percentage of others, though, difficulties with focus, emotional regulation, productivity and substance use (which very likely increased during this period of forced isolation) will linger.

For an even larger percentage, some combination of both of the above will persist, depending on the stresses of the day. Alas, even professionals and government workers are not immune to the impact of COVID. 

Psychologists expect many will struggle to adjust for the foreseeable future. Upheaval is disruptive in anyone’s life, and even more difficult for individuals and families who experience added barriers. These additional challenges are many. Whether caring for aging parents, keeping children happy at home, managing financially in a stalled economy or dealing with pandemic related anxiety, we are likely in for a few blizzards this winter.

Do you want to have a say in what mental health and adjustment supports the people in the rural communities east of Calgary need in COVID’s wake? If so, we want to hear from you. Send your suggestions to communityneeds@wheatlandcountycounselling.com. Please be sure to include your community in your email. 

For now, know that struggling is both normal and expected, and it will show more for those of us who have more poorly developed coping skills or added stressors in their lives. Stay tuned for free offerings from Wheatland County Counselling for helping pick up the pieces left behind by the storm.  

Rachel Dundas, R Psych, CPT is a Registered Psychologist, Certified Play Therapist and the Executive Director of Wheatland County Counselling in Strathmore and Drumheller. Visit www.wheatlandcountycounselling.com.