loneliness and isolation

Its hard to put into words how difficult these times are for everyone. Our lives have been interrupted in an unimaginable and unpredictable way. Although all of us have different circumstances and different home/work lives, we all share the same uncertainty and stress. Those of us who have anxiety disorders may be struggling more than others.

Order, structure, familiarity, and safety are paramount in anxious peoples' lives. Without these we often feel unsettled and unanchored. Whether we have a partner or not, aloneness and loneliness may be overwhelming right now. Relationships are being tested, parenting skills are being tested, friendships and work relationships are all being pushed to limits we may not be prepared or equipped to handle. If these issues ring true to you please know you are not alone. We all feel the strain and we are all looking for ways to cope. Knowing your feelings are shared with so many can help you navigate these difficult times and know there is nothing wrong with you.

Make a plan. Try not to make any major life decisions right now. However, if you feel suicidal, if you are being abused physically, emotionally or verbally, it is imperative that you reach out now! Call 911, your doctor or me (I can help direct you to the proper person or place.) For the rest of us, we need to set some short term goals. The best way to begin this is to break down our concerns into small sections and tackle them one at a time with baby steps. We want to set realistic expectations and reward ourselves for each accomplishment along the way. This helps us feel in control and provides our body and brain with positive reinforcement. We can handle what is front of us if we break it down and practice self care along the way.

Loneliness is a terrible feeling. It can make us physically ache, upset our stomach, bring on bouts of crying and apathy and intensify our anxious thoughts and symptoms. No one is immune from these feelings. There is nothing wrong with you if are experiencing this. It is ok to share your worries with those you love and feel safe with and often necessary to reach out for help.

Email me or Barbara Call me. Let us help. We can direct you to the best resource or I can meet with you myself. We are ALL in this together and will get through it TOGETHER!

With love,

Lisa

lisakgins@icloud.com

818 730 8002

docbak79@yahoo.com (Barbara)