When we are in emotional crisis mode, as we were during the COVID-19 pandemic, all our energy is directed toward coping with the crisis at hand. When there is forced structure and expectations, e.g. we were told to get vaccinated, wash our hands, and practice social distancing, it is clear what is expected of us. Now, as we continue to transition out of crisis mode, we can lack that dependable structure of expected and structured choices. While the coping skills and self-care that you established during the pandemic got you to this day, you may now find yourself feeling emotionally and socially pressured to fit into the dichotomy of either the pre-pandemic “normal” or of operating in crisis mode of limited and forced choices.

Everyone’s pandemic coping skills were different. Maybe you found unique beauty outdoors, learned to make sourdough bread, or took solace inside where soft blankets and other comforts existed. Perhaps you dove feet first into consuming the news, or maybe you limited your time to one small piece per day. It is important to remember that we no longer need to be stuck into forced dichotomies that can come with crisis mode. The changes we are still experiencing coming out of the pandemic are going to affect us for years to come, and by leaning into that process of change, we will find ourselves better able to adjust as we feel these long-term pandemic effects.

One way to embrace the change of shutting off crisis mode is to engage in self-evaluation. Step back and see which social situations, routines, and interests in your life are serving you and what you might like to change:

• What is a habit or hobby you tried in the past that really didn’t work for you and you want to stop?
• What is a habit or hobby at which you are improving that you started in the pandemic?
• What is something new you want to try, but during the pandemic, was not the right time?

If you need some help answering these questions, 50 Ways to Take a Break is one of my favorite illustrations for finding new, small coping skills.

Change is not easy, it is not comfortable, and it looks different for everyone. Returning to school has proven emotionally challenging for many students. Re-establishing work environments while a portion of staff and faculty remain remote is challenging for every organization. Holidays will bring more change and reminders of our pre- and post-pandemic coping skills. Your emotional processing this year doesn’t have to look the same as it did last year or the year before.

Whatever changes you made to your life during the pandemic, things will always continue to change, and by embracing that change, we continue to discover new and intriguing things about ourselves. There are lots of resources at Iowa for exploring what your coping skills will evolve into.

Take in some photography or go on a museum tour grabs your interest. The Arts Iowa calendar is a good place to start.

Staying active during the winter is often difficult. If you’re ready to embrace a swimming routine or try rock climbing, learn more about the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center.

Ready to try talking to someone but not sure if they will understand because you're exploring sexuality and gender expression? LGBQT+ Counseling Clinic provides ongoing counseling free of charge. Also, the Employee Assistance Program and the University Counseling Service provide counseling with no additional fees.

Hannah Green is a mental health advocate who lives in Iowa City.

Cover photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash