Thinking of how to start this or put what I want to say into words is difficult, so I won’t mince words- this is insane. Living in this uncertainty is quite the challenge, especially when it is all that is filling up Facebook feeds, news stories, and basically everywhere we look. How long can you scroll or look at any type of media before seeing the latest news on this virus that seems to be sweeping the world? My guess is not far. Last I looked in Colorado all bars and restaurants are closed, and it seems like schools aren’t far behind, if they haven’t closed already.
In my other life in the agriculture world- several major shows have been cancelled resulting in a huge loss for all of these kids, cities, businesses... the list goes on and on. No matter how much I love my job as a therapist, my heart will always be with the farmers and ranchers of this country, and as usual they are banding together. One memory that always stands out to me is when my Grandpa died several years ago, how quickly my small town community rallied around us. I will never forget the love and support shown to my family, and I’m seeing this same type of support being shown for these kids. People are scrambling to throw together an alternative show, many people are donating to scholarships, and “premium auctions” to benefit these kids, even though they didn’t get to finish out their projects.
It was almost exactly a year ago when Nebraska, and my hometown, faced a devastating flood, and although everyone is not yet recovered from that, they have sure showed their Nebraska Strong values since that time, and still today. It’s time that we, as a community, and a country, hold fast to these same values. Look out for one another (from afar!), lend a helping hand when you can, and wash your hands! It’s a virus we all have to be aware of, and do our best to not spread, and also be aware that our friends in agriculture are still out there everyday trying to ensure that we have the same quality food as always.
Some things to keep in mind:
• Limit your exposure to virus related news. It’s one thing to be aware, but it‘s also anxiety provoking to be watching/reading about/listening to the newest threats 24/7. Keep informed- but within reason.
• If you have kids home unexpectedly- enjoy this time! Teach them to change the oil, have them write letters to people in the nursing home who can’t have visitors, play some games!
• Breathe. Go outside. Practice self-care. This can trigger or worsen anxiety for a lot of people, and do your best to mitigate these effects by working through some coping strategies. Or- if it gets too intense- look into therapists offering teletherapy or other forms of online help. Many therapists are working through the best ways to serve clients during this time- myself included. I am planning to start up with some over the phone sessions, depending on what happens with schools in this area. As always- feel free to reach out to me if I can help in any way.
• I saw a Facebook post recently asking to remember the Seniors in your life. Think about what they’re potentially missing- prom, spring sports seasons, maybe graduation, many “lasts” for them. College seniors facing their uncertain futures, without the last few months to prepare.
All in all, I think we can all look to how the Ag community responds to trying times. Keep your head up, keep aware, and keep moving. Bonding together as a community is what we need now more than ever, and looking to each other will help keep all of our mental health needs in check, and help us to get through this season.
Morgan Burke has her Master’s of Science from Colorado State University in Human Development and Family Studies with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is currently the School-Based Therapist for Otis School District as well as running her private practice- Hope on the Horizon, LLC. Morgan is currently accepting clients. Call or text 970-445-4575, or email her at Morgan.burke@otisr3.com for more information about therapy sessions, or with any questions or comments about this article, or therapy in general.
Photo Credit to Tessa Flower Photography
My fiancé Levi and I with two of our favorite cows- Dorris and Angel.
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