Nothing can truly prepare you to parent during a pandemic, and families all across the world have been forced to do just that, parent during a pandemic. This past year has presented some of the most challenging times for families. Too many have been faced with unimaginable circumstances, impossible decisions to be made, isolation, loss of resources and so much more. Each family has been impacted differently, and each experience is valid in its own right and should not be compared to the next. 

“The reason we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.” - Brené Brown

Parenting is hard, period. When you factor in all the variables already mentioned it compounds the experience, takes away from joyous moments and sprinkles in a layer of grief. Grief is real and means something different to each person. It is important to acknowledge the grief you feel as a valid reaction to what might have been if we hadn’t been thrusted into a pandemic. Equally important is that you have the space to address and process your losses rather than being gaslighted by others due to their inability to sit with your feelings. Some may have felt they thrived, others may have felt immense amounts of stress and pressures pushing their families to unbearable limits and many may feel a combination of thriving and pressure.

Self-care includes recognizing your capacity, honoring your feelings, and making sure when you say yes to others you are not saying no to yourself. You should be proud of how far you have come, your strength and ability to navigate such an intense time. This year has been about survival, you are not the person you were before the pandemic and that is okay. As you begin to navigate your new normal, give yourself grace and patience.

What has this past year felt like for you? Have you been able to take time to reflect? What new experiences of emotions have you had? Were you able to take a pause and notice what you were feeling? What types of physical reactions did you begin to notice? Did life feel more intense with the lockdown?

So what’s next....

Therapy provides you with a compassionate space where you can let go and share your story with someone who can provide you with unbiased support. A qualified mental health professional can help you process all the different aspects of your human experience while developing strategies for functioning on a daily basis. In time, you can gain control over emotional triggers and learn to cope with your grief in a way that promotes greater healing and peace. To schedule an appointment,  Thrive Postpartum, Couples and Family Therapists can be reached by text or phone at 224-698-9792. Alternatively you can also schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you.