Stress Management: COVID-19 - Psychological and Spiritual Context.

Abstract

Any crisis (personal or collective) brings along an in-built stress. It cripples people from living a normal life; sometimes it leads people to the extreme condition of permanent damage. The COVID-19 situation has brought in unexpected misery - victimizing millions of people. It has been an equalizer as both the rich and the poor have been affected; both the affluent and the developing countries have become a prey to the pandemic. For nearly one year the world is wondering which way to turn for comfort or solution, as the fear of the second and third waves looms over. Science has not given the timely preventive medication; world leaders are not able to lead the people with effective insight; financial system is on the brink of collapse; and even the faith of people seems to become a question mark. But any problem should have a solution, with often multiple aspects of solutions. Apart from medicine, one could become strengthened to face the situation. Starting with the analysis of the cause and the effect of Coronavirus Pandemic, this talk explores the intellectual and emotional aspects of the situation with the focus on the psychological and spiritual solutions to face the crisis; how to get reconciled with the reality; and how to thrive in his situation. The ultimate goal is to come out of the crisis with a spirit of creativity. If the pandemic is a period of cocoon, the butterfly-joy would be the hope to come out soon. And we need to stay energized to realize the fullness of life with peace of the mind, health of the body, and joy of the heart. Practical suggestions are put forward to face, encounter, and overcome the situation.