2020 was a difficult year for all of us and brought forth many unforeseen challenges. Reflecting on the year and acknowledging the resiliency each of us has had throughout 2020 is important. Treat yourselves with kindness because the year was difficult and if you did not “accomplish” everything you sought out to do, that is okay. The global pandemic held folks back from goals they had originally set out to do.
It was a difficult year for a lot of people’s mental health as well. We have had to connect with others in alternative ways such as video-calling, being limited to small gatherings, and becoming more dependent on technology overall. Do not forget to reach out to those who are important to you. We as humans are social beings and connection with others is needed. It should be noted that individuals who have experienced trauma may have a “familiarity with how to negotiate a world that feels quite scary at times; they have some expertise in how to get through the hard days.” Some individuals may have resorted back to coping strategies they had used in the past while others who had not struggled as much with their mental health, may have been confronted with challenges they did not know how to deal with.
In 2021, we should remember the resiliency we have shown and the lessons we have learned in the past year. Some may have found it hopeful to create new year’s resolutions or set intentional times going forward to practice one’s self-care. If there is one thing we learned in 2020, it is the immense importance of taking care of ourselves. If you feel you may need further support, please feel free to book a counselling session at Journey Counselling at 403-619-8558 or if in need of immediate assistance, contact the Distress Centre at 403-266-4357.
