February=The Worst Month?
A gallop poll done first in 1960 and again in 2005 found that Americans ranked February as the worst month of the year. This finding was also politically consistent between both Democrats and Republicans. This ranking may come as a surprise for those that like February, maybe because they rank Valentines Day as their favorite holiday or they have birthdays or anniversaries that occur during this short month.
However, for those that have the not-so-uncommon seasonal depressive disorder or those that dread going out in the cold, this ranking may not be surprising. These people are hopeful that the ground hog or some other dependable source will tell us that spring will be here soon. For now, there is just under two months left until spring. So how do we make this moment, and this pandemic situation where we are stuck doing things in ways we didn’t anticipate but have put us on the edge, a positive time?
We can start by owning the misery. Zoom, virtual everything, lock down, social distancing; they all stink. It has been a tough adaption to this lifestyle and it is okay to be sad and to grieve the losses of activity and connection we have felt during this time. Many have experienced death of loved ones, faced personal or family physical illness, and had mental health struggles. It is okay to grieve for these losses and challenges as well. We can and need to feel all of our emotions about this difficult time.
Show grace, compassion, and empathy to those around us who may feel differently and need to express their emotions as well. Maybe you are not experiencing a hardship at this particular time, but a friend or neighbor could be. It is important to listen to others and show compassion where others may be struggling. Just your ears to listen, in a safe way, could bring positivity to someone who is struggling during this time.
Know you are not alone. It is important that we recognize that we are not on this journey alone. I passionately believe that we are not created to live alone, but rather in community with others. This is particularly important during difficult times when we are grieving or struggling. This can be a challenging time to be around people, but it is important to remain in contact with friends and family and reach out if you are struggling. Phone calls and FaceTime are wonderful tools to stay connected. You are not alone and friends and family are a click away.
Remember that spring will come and it will be here soon. The first day of spring this year is March 20, less than two months away. The new blooms, greenery, and warmer weather are just around the corner. During Roman times February was a time of cleansing and preparation for the coming of spring. This is a good time to busy yourself and clean out the winter blues with preparations for spring.
As we come upon the one-year mark of this pandemic lifestyle remember that it is okay to be sad and feel the stress of the situation. But also remember that spring is around the corner and there is a community of people, friends, family to help you. Reach out to your church, community groups, or support agencies to help you face the last of winter and get ready for spring. We are all on this journey together and will get through it together, ready for spring.
-Ellen Begley, LCMHCS and Director of BMCC
We are always available on our phone number 828.669.9798 or by visiting our website www.blackmountaincounseling.org.
