The current climate has left many of us feeling uneasy and discontent. The coronavirus pandemic has impacted us all, manifesting in various forms—be it physical, emotional, financial, or a combination of these. What initially seemed like a short-lived season of social distancing has extended indefinitely, leaving many of us in a state of uncertainty.
This situation is undeniably tough. I often long for the days when I could navigate life without the looming threat of a new virus affecting our health systems or jeopardizing the well-being of those I care about.
While it’s true that knowing others may be suffering more intensely than I am can sometimes provide a sense of perspective, it seldom brings me solace. The pervasive grief around us only adds to my emotional burden. Empathy weighs heavily during times like these, and I occasionally find myself grappling with guilt for my own circumstances.
But here we are. COVID-19 is our reality, and we must endure this pandemic until it changes. Almost everyone is facing challenges in some form.
It’s essential to remember this when we begin the mental gymnastics of comparing our suffering to that of others.
Engaging in comparative suffering does not benefit anyone. Our individual pain and discomfort are valid, regardless of how they stack up against someone else’s experience.
For instance, I recently shared how much I missed my grandmother due to the pandemic restrictions preventing her from visiting for special occasions. It’s been nearly six months since we last saw each other, and the timeline for a reunion is still unclear. A comment from someone read, “Stop whining. Talk to me when you’ve lost someone.” This reaction was dismissive and unnecessary! Certainly, I would be devastated if something happened to her; I even acknowledged that. Yet, it doesn’t negate my feelings of sadness over the separation.
Feeling a little sad is valid, even if you’re not the most devastated person in the room. Emotions are not a competition.
We’re all simply trying to navigate this unprecedented time. It’s essential to recognize that you don’t need to downplay your own feelings just because “it could be worse.” Everyone experiences discomfort differently, and just because someone else’s situation might seem more dire doesn’t mean your feelings are any less real.
You are allowed to feel overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or frustrated. This pandemic is unlike anything we’ve faced before, and it’s entirely normal to feel weighed down by it.
We don’t apply the same logic to positive feelings. You wouldn’t hear someone say, “I’m really happy, but I shouldn’t be, since it could be better.” Happiness is subjective, based on personal experiences. So why should we judge our pain differently?
You deserve to feel the full weight of whatever challenges you’re facing without comparing them to someone else’s struggles.
Of course, it’s crucial to be mindful of others’ situations. For example, discussing my feelings of anxiety and isolation with someone grieving the loss of a loved one due to COVID-19 would be inappropriate. That would show a lack of sensitivity and awareness.
However, there are still appropriate spaces where you can express your own struggles. It’s vital to find circles of friends or loved ones where you can share openly. It’s necessary for our mental health to have a safe outlet for our feelings.
While it’s beneficial to recognize the ways in which you’re fortunate, it doesn’t mean you have to minimize your own experiences. It’s perfectly okay to feel grateful for the positives in life, even amidst chaos. Your emotions are valid.
Even if you can think of worse scenarios, it’s okay to acknowledge that things feel tough right now. The important thing is to recognize your pain and seek the support you need. Comparative suffering only complicates our emotional landscape, so let’s lay that competition to rest.
For more insights on managing emotions during these times, check out this blog post. Also, if you’re exploring home insemination options, resources like this one and this excellent guide can provide valuable information.
Summary:
Comparative suffering is unproductive and doesn’t help anyone. Each person’s feelings are valid regardless of how they compare to others’ experiences. It’s essential to acknowledge your own pain while being mindful of others. Finding safe spaces to share your struggles can greatly benefit your emotional well-being.
Keyphrase: comparative suffering
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