This summer was supposed to mark our return to some sort of normalcy. COVID-19 vaccines were widely available and certain pandemic restrictions were easing. It was the light at the end of a long, dark tunnel. But now, just when we thought we had found our footing once again, the rug has been pulled out from under us. The Delta variant is spreading in our community and leading to more uncertainty.
And for many of us, the timing of this COVID-19 resurgence is unwelcome. It is making the back-to-school season even more stressful, for kids, parents and teachers alike. It is also leading some of us to question whether we can safely return to the activities we’ve missed over the past year and a half, even if we’re vaccinated. Is it safe for me to go to the gym? Can I hug my elderly parents? Can I safely send my kids back to school? These are the questions that we hoped were behind us.
For families navigating the transition back to the classroom, there is plenty of uncertainty. For parents of teenagers, they are deciding if they should have their child vaccinated. For families of younger students, they are left to wonder if the precautions in place will protect their child from getting sick.
It is important to realize that there are ways to cope with uncertainty. Talking about it is a good place to start. Especially for children, we need to give them ample opportunities to talk about what they’re feeling. All of us – regardless of age – are sifting through a number of emotions right now. Give the young people in your life the room to rummage through all of those emotions. It might be messy and that’s okay.
As we navigate this continuing season of uncertainty, we need to be taking care of our bodies and minds. But perhaps the most important things we can all do right now is to make sure we’re maintaining our social connections. Call your friends. Check in on your loved ones. We might all be experiencing this moment in time differently, but we could all use some support right now. Don’t be afraid to be the one to reach out – whether to offer support or to ask for help.
These uncertain times will pass. They might pass like a kidney stone, but they will eventually pass. In the meantime, tap into your support system and give yourself grace as we move forward.