A Loss of Control
Have you ever felt that you lost control of a situation? Whether that was your temper, as a parent (Would you please stop what you’re doing!?!), or anger at a food delivery (It took 2 hours, really!?!).
Right now, in the midst of this pandemic, we’re all feeling a little out of control. We have no control over when we will be able to leave our houses safely again. We have no control over our jobs; whether we will work from home, what we will be able to do, and perhaps even if we will maintain our employment. If we are a health care worker, we may have no choice or control over whether we are able to maintain even our own physical safety.
These are scary times, and our lack of control magnifies our anxiety around it all.
Several thoughts to help with your coping. First, start with what you know. Allow yourself to hold on to the things that are firm, solid, and without struggle. The understanding of a significant other, the comfort of a favorite food, the warmth of a cozy blanket. This is the time to start with these simple pleasures.
Secondly, start to drill down on what the struggle is. What are the areas you need help in right now? Are you concerned about a relationship, or struggling with loneliness? Do you feel pressure to perform your best at work, or do you feel you are not getting the recognition you deserve? Let’s outline the areas where the struggle lies. Remember, there will always be things that we can’t control. Let’s work on what we can control.
Lastly, try to find someone who you can share these feelings with. A good friend or a family member might work. In addition, it never hurts to have other members of your “team.” The counselors and therapists at Transcend Counseling Chicago are prepared to meet with you, get you thinking about the things you can control, empathize with you, and work towards solutions. Our office is in Ravenswood/Lincoln Square, but we are available to meet virtually, in your own space. Connect with us and let us help you find a way to control the things that are possible in your life.
Call 773-887-6447, email connect@transcendchicago.com, or schedule your free 15-minute consultation in our secure portal.
