Whether it’s called lockdown, community quarantine, circuit breaker, or some other term designed to keep us eternally confused, the more fortunate of us are very likely going to be staying in our homes for the next few months or so.

The current situation seems particularly dire, bringing us back to where we were at the start of the pandemic when cases were on the rise and health facilities were filling up to the rafters. Once again, we are hearing anecdotal stories of patients being turned away or worse, dying without having been attended to by health professionals.

While other countries are slowly but surely treading the path to recovery, here we still are, being force-fed an alphabet of acronyms by a government intent on gaslighting the truth.

It’s not surprising at all to feel a growing sense of helplessness. Matching the case numbers with the sheer incompetence of the present administration is not good for our mental health. So for the sake of our sanity, it would be helpful to step back, and take care of ourselves and our families. We’re in for the long haul, unfortunately.

When it comes to all things mental, I always turn to my good friend Dr. Michele Alignay, who’s not only a family psychologist but also a guidance counselor, teacher, and self-care advocate.

“Accept the reality.”

ICHEL ALIGNAY, PHD

This is one of the first things Ichel told me.  

And I repeat: Accept the reality.

Whether it’s right or wrong, fair or unfair, disgusting, embarrassing, along with some other expletives we’d want to insert, this is the reality that we find ourselves in. This is what we have to work with.

Ichel says, “Create your new normal. Work with what you have. We have been on lockdown for a year, so you should already know the drill.”

If you’re still dismayed over the fact that gyms are closed or spas remain unopen, then that’s on you. By this time, Ichel says you should have already worked out ways to take care of yourself at home without having to go to your usual self-care places.

“Let go of any grand plans.”

ICHEL ALIGNAY, PHD

As we’ve seen in the latest lockdown, plans can go awry just like that. Countless vacations were laid to ruin when cases hit record-breaking levels rendering those of us in Greater Manila veritable prisoners.

Because there are too many factors beyond our control, Ichel says it’s best not to make any big plans. Work within the limitations of the quarantine. You will only be frustrated otherwise.

“Aim for small, workable goals.”

ICHEL ALIGNAY, PHD

Get into a fitness routine. Strengthen the bonds of family. Work on your spiritual life. Tend a garden. Paint your room another color. Write letters to friends.

Working on such tasks will give you a sense of accomplishment.

“Practice self-compassion.”

ICHEL ALIGNAY, PHD

Yes, things could be downright miserable. Throw a pity party if you like. But at the end of the day, it is you who would have to work on yourself. Be kind to yourself. Look for people who could give you support.

Go on a social media detox. If there are people, personalities, or parties stressing you out, Ichel encourages you to unfollow them. It’s okay.

We’re always being prompted to be kind to others. But hey, we should first be kind to ourselves.

Stay safe.

Stay sane.

Photo by Kinga Cichewicz on Unsplash