International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc.
International Critical Incident Stress Foundation, Inc.
By: Rick Barton, CEO
A friend recently said the following as they moderated a webinar, “The word of the day is uncertainty. That’s for sure.” Their words truly and simply summarized the year. Coping with uncertainty remains a challenge.
When COVID-19 restrictions became part of life we focused on when this will end. We surmised that if we can just hold on for a while everything will get back to normal. Events and activities were postponed, but not cancelled, at least in the early weeks and months. This dragged on, and the year shifted from denial to acceptance to a sort of public depression.
We have collectively learned lessons along the way. We adapted to the wearing of face masks, adjusted to keeping our distance, and managed alternative ways to meet, learn and interact. Some good things have resulted, although mostly we are just tolerating the adjustments until normal life returns.
Coping with what we have, rather than what we want, is a fundamental principle of wilderness survival. While lost in the forest, tactics include creating a shelter with tree branches against a deadfall tree, seeking water in puddles, and eating whatever you hope to be edible. Creating fire without matches may determine whether you live or die. The mindset, or attitude of survival against troubling conditions seems similar to our current situation. Attitude is everything in such incidents.
In the midst of a holiday season our COVID-19 trouble may escalate. Perhaps we should celebrate how far we have come while reaffirming that we shall do what needs to be done to adjust, adapt and manage no matter what lies ahead. That is the attitude that helps people survive in any crisis. You have the power to make the holidays special, to share joy differently, with robust passion. Celebrate life, rather than regret any part of this journey, while adjusting to remain healthy and safe.
ICISF Co-Founder Dr. George Everly authored a remarkable article for Psychology Today that offers relevant observations and guidance. You may also find reassurance in his words. He helps us see certainty amid a period of uncertainty.
Here is the link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/when-disaster-strikes-inside-disaster-psychology/202011/psychological-survival-and-the-second
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