‘Power of Optimism in the Midst of Coronavirus

‘Power of Optimism in the Midst of Coronavirus

‘Coronavirus’ or COVID-19 is the most common word in the lexicon of people nowadays. As Corona virus pandemic unfolds across the entire world, it has transformed the world in both positive and negative ways. Thousands of people have lost their lives and lakhs of them have fallen ill from this virulent disease. The constant stream of negative news has made people feel anxious and uncertain. Being anxious is the most explicable reaction as this epidemic has affected the daily routines of people by making it dull and monotonous. It is difficult to liberate oneself from building up a feeling of helplessness and a sense of insecurity.

The coronavirus is not only affecting us physically but is more damaging to our nervous systems. We have inculcated a new habit of constantly peeking at the data updates of the virus spreading extensively. This media information easily helps our brains to spin stories of fear and dread. The uncertainty about the virus is making people more anxious through ‘social contagion’ which implies that anxiety is triggered simply by talking to someone who is already anxious. Nowadays, when we talk to our friends and relatives on phone, the major topic of our conversation is ‘Corona’ which further helps in accelerating the level of anxiety.

Staying at ‘home’ can save you from coming in physical contact with virus but it has surely become the most apposite place to be psychologically close to virus. What I personally feel, the virus has more potential of affecting the lives of people psychologically especially of elderly people who are more prone to get affected. Having the feeling of being locked at home and unable to meet friends develops the fear of isolation in them. It is hard to maintain equilibrium in the epidemic but it is high time that we should engage our minds in something which will develop positive spirit instead of an endless spiral of negative thoughts and feelings.

Just as there are two sides to a coin, there are two sides to every situation. Keeping in mind the precautions, it is time to overlook the negativity that this pandemic is spreading and focusing on the positivity which will help you view this situation from a constructive perspective. Staying positive means when you choose to see the good and it reflects your outlook towards life. The corona virus too has actually resulted in a bunch of positives for humanity as well as for our planet Earth. As far as planet Earth is considered it has been given a chance to breathe again. Pollution is lowered, the sky is clearer; wildlife is returning to newly clear waters, reduction of greenhouse gases, etc. As far as our lives are considered, in today’s fast world, the quarantine has given us the opportunity to spend quality time with our families. Families are using recipes from around the world as a time to bond together. Mealtimes offer time to talk, listen and build good family relationships.

So, in the grueling and challenging time of epidemic, we need an antidote so that we can have a positive outlook and march ahead with fortitude and strength of mind. Engross yourself in activities that are constructive, cheering, uplifting, stress reducing and laughter inducing! Together, we’ll get through this.

Dr. Ranbir Kaur

22nd May, 2020.