Pandemic Counselling- Lessons from Angst

Life’s fragility has been exposed, with COVID-19 wrenching this truth from the depths of our subconscious, amplifying anxiety as taken for granted ‘guarantees’ remain no longer.

Realizing nothing is for certain has been a disturbing source of angst, while loss of employment, relationship breakdown, restricted participation in community, and the passing of loved ones has acquainted many with grief and loss.

So how have people responded to this ‘negative’ emotional concoction?

For some, it has been tempting to seek distraction from the tension generated by anxiety intermingled with grief. And although distraction has provided a certain degree of temporary relief, the opportunity for growth and development may have tragically passed by.

You see, there is much to be gained by seeking to understand our unwanted emotional companions. Rather than a sign of pathology, these feelings can function as messengers who prompt us to live life with purposeful integrity.

They remind us of what, and who ultimately matter.

Like a faint glimmer shrouded by darkness, gnawing emotional tensions beckon each one of us to pause, reflect, and reorient our lives in a more meaningful direction.

With open-eyes – attending to, and valuing what is truly important.

Instead of sleepwalking through the usual daily motions.

I have been privileged to witness people embrace these uncomfortable experiences as catalysts for change. Not the easy 'quick-fix' kind, mind you, but the genuine kind of change that requires courageous vulnerability, compassion and perseverance in liminality – braving the space between devastation and healing.

In doing so, steps toward wholeness and wellbeing have been taken against all odds.

So how are you going with embracing the tension of life’s fragility this year?