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As we have all seen, 2020 has been the storm of a lifetime. Of course in Wisconsin we have tornadoes, rain and blizzards, but we have never seen a storm like this: a global pandemic, dismantling social justice issues and an upcoming historical election.
It is enough to make anyone's anxiety go into overdrive.
As someone who has been honest about her anxiety in the past, I also believe this is an important time to discuss another important issue.
Mental health issues are on the rise due largely in part because of the unplanned circumstances brought forth upon us this year. People of all ages have had to adjust overnight. Children had to say goodbye to their friends at school and to their favorite teachers, and continue their studies from home. Parents had to not only become parents but had to become personal assistants, teachers, therapists, secretaries, and many other types of jobs all from their home. Teachers have had to say goodbye to students that they not only taught but have taught them so much, and they had to overnight become IT specialists and teach curriculum, and have had to relearn a whole new way to guide students through their lessons. Doctors, patients, emergency personnel, mental health specialists, law enforcement, social justice warriors have all been in the battle in some way shape or form and it has taken its toll mentally.
So my advice, please give yourself grace and compassion. You are doing the best you can in the best way you know how. Be sure that you are taking the time to reach out to people you know that care about you. There are more people that care about you than you realize. You are never alone.
It is also important to check on those around you, it always makes a difference.
If you are struggling, carrying on more than you can handle, and feel that you can't do it anymore please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or contact the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Iowa County.