Give Yourself Some Grace
By Precia Stuby, LISW-S
Executive director of the Hancock County ADAMHS Board
During COVID-19 there is advice all around us. You can get it from friends, neighbors, family, television, radio, the internet, and social media to name a few. Some of it conflicts with what you hear from different sources, however, themes related to how to keep emotionally healthy are relatively consistent. They include: focusing on what you can and cannot control; keeping a routine; connecting with others; and validating feelings. This is indeed the advice we are consistently putting out into the community. It’s good advice, but it’s definitely easier said than done.
What I hear most consistently from people is the lack of ability to focus; the shortness of temper; the lack of motivation to do anything; and the shear fear of what will be the “new normal.” These are things that many struggle with, including myself. I often hear from people close to me, “give yourself some grace.” I would ask that you do the same.
Grace can be used as a noun or a verb. At its essence, grace is a word that can be used to describe the ability to grant yourself temporary immunity from your actions. We are all reacting to a situation we did not create. We need to give and receive grace in order to be more tolerant of others and more accepting of our own behavior.
This is a time of great challenge. We all have the opportunity to look out for one another. I would ask that you offer grace to yourself and others. When you are not in the position to give; accept. When you are in the position to give, please do so.
To genuinely care is the greatest gift of all. Connect with others; validate their feelings; help them establish routine and to recognize what they can and cannot control. Most of all if you or someone you know needs help, please get it. Help is out there. I know it’s easier said than done, but half the battle is in trying.
The collective trauma of COVID-19 is uncharted territory for all of us. In the Thriving Families blog, we aim to share messages of hope and tools to cope. Featured authors are local experts and community partners.
In March, our Hancock County System of Care grant project launched the inaugural Thriving Families Week. This week was dedicated to bringing local families and professionals together to talk about healing trauma, addiction, and mental illness.