Preparing for a Pandemic Winter
Happy autumn, AWN! Whether you spent the summer navigating the uncharted waters of a pandemic PCS or spent it having socially-distanced BBQs, we have finally crossed the threshold into autumn. Now is the time for cooler weather, pumpkin patches, and cozy chats around warm fires.
But as the ever-pragmatic Ned Stark used to say, “Winter is coming.”
Under normal circumstances, winter brings to mind the joys of the holiday season and spending lots of time indoors living our best hygge lives. Unfortunately, 2020 has been anything but normal.
With much of our usual winter joys being called into question, it is reasonable for you to be looking ahead at the coming months with uncertainty. To help you prepare for a pandemic winter, here is a list of suggestions and tips:
1. Start with the basics.
Get your flu shot. Make sure you are eating a healthy and balanced diet, drinking enough water, and getting a good night’s sleep. Talk to your doctor about taking a multivitamin or supplement, and please remember to wear your mask (and properly) while in public.
2. Work smarter, not harder.
The winter months can take a toll on your mental health and productivity due to fewer hours of sunlight each day. If you work from home, simply moving your workspace closer to a window with natural sunlight can improve your emotional well-being. If you do not have an abundance of natural light, whether due to your location at work or your location around the globe, consider purchasing a sunlamp or a sunrise alarm clock.
3. Go outside.
Embrace the Norwegian concept of “friluftsliv” by bundling up and going outdoors. Spending just a few hours each week in nature can improve your overall well-being (and you can trust the Norwegians, as they have been rated one of the happiest groups of people in the world).
4. Be proactive.
If you find yourself struggling with depression or anxiety, consider finding a therapist now before they book up for the winter months. There is nothing wrong or embarrassing about having a therapist, and I strongly encourage even the healthiest of you to seek help during these trying times. For therapy newbies and old-hats alike, visit militaryonesource.com for more information and 24/7 support.
5. Move your get-togethers back online.
It is important to adapt to make the most out of what we’ve been handed (a true milspouse motto if I’ve ever heard one). When the weather turns cold, start scheduling your game nights and happy hours on Zoom. For your kiddos who are missing their friends and family, check out the PeeWee app on your phone or tablet. The app allows your socially-distanced loved ones to read to your children, giving them some much-needed socialization and you a well-deserved break.
6. Give yourself grace (and all the self-care).
Whether it comes in the form of bath bombs, puzzles, or retail therapy, find ways to treat yo’self. These are not normal times, and we should not be expected to always cope in normal ways. Allow yourself the space to feel your feelings, even on the hard days, and be kind to yourself. Give grace not only to yourself, but to your loved ones and neighbors alike.
So, Happy fall, y’all! Enjoy your pumpkin spiced lattes and that secret stash of Halloween candy that you hid from the kids. But while you’re busy celebrating the spooky season, take some time to start preparing for the winter months so that they might be a little bit brighter.
For more information like this, check out:
How to Maintain You Mental Health During Covid19
AWTR Show #725: Depression, Anxiety, and Milspouse Mental Health
