Even before COVID, many people felt challenged and unable to cope with the ups and downs of daily life. The incidence of mental health conditions among children and teens, adults and the elderly were rising. There was more political, economic and social conflict and disparity. The differences between people had begun to matter more than what we had in common and there was a general feeling of tension and dis-ease.
Then COVID happened and all the dis-stress that was steadily growing, exploded. Life was uncertain. No one felt safe. Hope for the future? What future. While this may seem overly dramatic, the results of 3 years of chronic intense stress have affected all of us. The number of people reporting anxiety, depression and other stress-intensified health conditions has grown significantly. There have been global shortages of medical and mental health providers.
During COVID, teachers suffered from not being able to deliver optimal learning experiences and greater numbers of students fell behind. Neighborhoods became less safe and the incidence of violence more widespread. Our political and economic system became more broken. Disparities between social groups continued increasing. The “what’s in it for me” approach to life seemed to take over. “Working towards the common good” seemed had become a thing of the past.
Okay. Enough. So, what can I do? I’m JUST one person and this is way out of my league. Talking about this just makes me feel more stressed and depressed!!! The solution is simple but not easy. Like Ghandi said, “Become the change you want to see in the world.” Learn to stress less and live better in your own life and you will help create a calmer and more peaceful world. Babysteps, persistent practice and lots of experimenting will help you learn what works for you and lead to change. Remember, life is a marathon NOT a sprint.
That’s what my friends and I will be talking about online and in our new podcast for the rest of 2023. Our podcast will provide tools and tips to deal with life’s ups and downs that we all need now more than ever Besides each of us sharing what’s worked in our own lives personally and professionally, we’ll answer your questions and concerns with our combined experience and expertise of 100+ years as health professionals.
We will also provide support for women of all ages and stages of life by having you share your stories and life lessons with us. Rafiki the wise guru monkey in the Lion King said, “Sometimes life hurts and we can either learn from it or run from it.” Join us as we become wiser and stronger together.
drdianesanford.com 