Beating the Blues

If 2020 has taken a toll on you and you couldn’t wait for 2021 to arrive, then it may be you’re fighting the blues. Many people are these days. 2020 has been a difficult year for most of us because of financial woes, job losses, illness, and depression. That’s just the tip of the iceberg for many, but there are some things you can do to beat the blues too.

Many of us are feeling pretty negative about what has happened to us in 2020, but if you are able to read this, then you have been successful in surviving a worldwide pandemic. That’s pretty big, and let’s face it, it didn’t happen without some effort on your part! But you may be left with some pretty negative thoughts about this year. Why did it happen? What could have been done better, faster, or with more forethought to mitigate the negative effects of the pandemic? Now, try thinking instead about what you will be taking away from this experience. You are a survivor, and what you’ve learned can help others when/if they go through similar experiences. Take a moment to create a Pandemic Journal and leave some notes for your family on what you’ve learned from this historical event and what might help them survive a similar experience.

Look for the good things in life, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. It’s so easy to focus on the things that cause us pain or make life harder, but there is usually a silver lining if you just take the time to look for it. Are you lonely? You’re alive, and you’re able to reach out to others and help them. Call a friend or family member and let them know you’re thinking of them. Have you lost your job? There are many different organizations available to help you jazz up your resume, learn how to interview more successfully, and locate employment (Disability Network/Lakeshore is one of them). Having trouble keeping enough food in the house, finding a place to live, or meeting other needs? The thing is, no one can help you if you shut yourself off and don’t allow them to help.

Work on developing an attitude of gratitude, and yes, it can be work. Remember, things could be worse. You live in a free country, you have people who care about you (yes, we do care!), and the sun will shine again. It can be hard to remember that, but if you look at the good things you have instead of what you don’t have, it’s easier to get a better perspective on the situation.

If you are overwhelmed by the events of 2020, and you are struggling to get by, please call Disability Network/Lakeshore and let us help. That’s why we’re here. We offer employment services, peer support, life skills training, and so much more! You can call us at 616.396.5326 or contact us here.