While life is often fraught with uncertainty, as we cannot predict the future, constructing a framework to draw from, helps us in having a grounded idea of what our next steps might look like. In the early months of 2020, our collective sense of certainty dissolved in what felt like a moment’s notice. The COVID-19 pandemic created a lot of change that is sudden and quickly evolving, leading to a perpetual state of uncertainty for many.
If you are reading this page, it is likely that you know someone that has tested positive for COVID-19 or is suspected to have it. Prior to this moment, along with feeling shocked and fearful as you saw the number of COVID-19 cases increase throughout the country and the world, there may have also been some comfort and security knowing that those you cared most about were safe.
How are you feeling? Anxious, worried, hopeful, bored, regretful, connected, sad, tired, at a loss, or low or no motivation? These are some of the common feelings that we have been hearing from students as they are struggling to adjust to this new and unknown circumstance of the stay-at-home order. The way we respond to a change or a trigger, such as COVID-19, is different for each individual, depending on many factors including our background, our support systems, and our biological make-up. Below is a list of possible reasons behind some feelings or emotions:
Although anti-Asian and Asian American xenophobia and racism is not a new phenomenon, we acknowledge that the COVID-19 pandemic has generated greater xenophobic and racist biases against both international and domestic people of Asian descent. Incidences of harassment, assault, and microaggressions against any members of our community must be faced head on. We encourage our UM community to check and challenge biases within ourselves and within our social networks. We can recognize the fear this illness generates, while also offering compassion to ourselves and others during this time.
Viewing media coverage of COVID-19 can bring a range of emotions. It can be important to be informed, but we have to be aware of how the coverage may be impacting us. Understand that this is a very unusual time in our life, so it's ok to have mixed emotions. Allow yourself to feel, whatever you are feeling. Give yourself a break, treat yourself with respect. Today may not have been my most productive day, but it's ok. I have already planned some goals for tomorrow and I will make it up tomorrow.
