Does anyone else remember Schoolhouse Rock’s Conjunction Junction? “Conjunction junction, what’s your function?” is catchy and – believe it or not – has lasted for nearly 30 years! Here is the link for all of you youngin’s who have no idea what I’m talking about, or if you’re feeling a little nostalgic.
I bring that up today because I have a new catchy saying to posit, this time about mental health – and you can sing it to the same tune - “Connection reflection, what’s your protection?” I bet you’re wondering what on earth I’m talking about, and if the pandemic isolation has made me totally lose my mind. Funny you say that! (yes), and that’s what this is about.
The pandemic has affected literally everyone, to varying degrees. But regardless of how severely it’s affected you, connection is necessary to building resilience against the chaos that is thrown our way. That’s where connection reflection comes in – taking time to self-reflect about choosing connection during these unknown times. We were built for relationships of all kinds, and two main reasons why the pandemic has been so awful on us is because it’s affected our daily routines and our connection with others. Both provide protection for us individually and collectively, so let’s talk about how we can implement it.
If you’re the worksheet kind of person, check out this link to reflect about implementing “Connection Reflection” in your life.
If you’re like me and that link would just sit in the to do list for another 12 months, I will give you some nuggets of wisdom that you can implement right now!
Create a daily routine for yourself (and kids, if you have them).
Create a “basics” routine for the days that you’re just surviving through (no judgment, we’ve all been there). That might include brushing your teeth, taking your medication, and doing one fun thing for yourself.
Make a list of people that are in your corner, that you can connect with. It might be a new friend at church, a friend you’ve known forever or a family member. It’s good to have a list so when you’re feeling down, you can reach out.
Make a list of ways that you can help others. That could mean a friendly gesture at the grocery store, checking in on your favorite person to make sure they are okay, or making a card for someone in the nursing home (who is likely suffering from isolation, too!).
Get a therapist to talk to. It’s my personal belief that every single person can benefit from having a neutral person to talk to about anything and everything (I have one, she’s great!).
Have a list of self-care items that range from a nice, hot shower to limiting television news intake to budgeting (yes, taking proper care of your finances IS self-care!).
Join a new online group; sometimes anonymity can help us feel safe to be vulnerable about our needs and desires.
Learn to enjoy time alone.
Plan something fun for the future. Maybe that means a dream vacation or a day trip to the beach. Having something to look forward to is important.
Remember that this condition is temporary. It may seem like it will drag on forever, but it won’t.
Whatever you choose to do today, know that I am thinking of you and cheering you on. We will get through this, together.
Jeanna Tinney lives in Massachusetts with her beloved son. She has her MSW from Edinboro University and works as a social worker on legal defense teams.
