The only things that is “normal” right now
While the rest of us are still shell shocked from what’s unfolded over the last two months, we are slowly starting to embrace and acknowledge that nothing will truly be “back to normal.” We are learning to embrace and evolve in accepting a “new normal;” whatever the heck that may be. But while we’re still adjusting, there is a community of people who are experiencing life as if COVID-19 is a myth. That group exists for people currently in treatment.
To the staff who have had to follow more safety protocols, and the create new systems, it hasn’t trickled down to the residents. They are still in groups. They are still living in the program’s accommodations. They are still engaging in therapy, being active outdoors, and eating communal meals. It may sound incomprehensible for those of us who aren’t currently in treatment, but it’s the truth. Those in treatment are the ones with the most normal life right now.
Am I suggesting we all go to treatment solely to relive the olden days? Absolutely not unless you are in need of treatment. In that case, I’d say to you: “what you are waiting for?” There is no reason not to go right now, especially when you know now it’s the one place that can feel the most reminiscent, safe, and comforting. I digress.
The feeling of nostalgia you get going to a coffee shop to meet up with friends casually, that’s the feeling that some people are experiencing in treatment right now. The impromptu shopping spree at Target just because you were in the area, that’s the same feeling that some people are experiencing in treatment right now. The smile you gave to the other drivers you pass by on a small dirt road on a summer day with your windows down and hair blowing in the wind, that may be the feeling that some people are experiencing in treatment right now. It may not be too. But the smiling to a stranger and acknowledging other humans in your general vicinity, that’s something that those in treatment are still engaging in. Meanwhile, the rest of us are Vitamin D deficient due to being sheltered at home for over six weeks.
I’m idolizing being in treatment, and in reality, participating in a treatment program is far from sunshine and rainbows. It’s hard work. If you’re in a treatment program, you’re there for a reason not because you just casually wanted to enroll. Change takes efforts, and effort makes growth. Growth can mean discomfort. Their daily structure and routine is about as normal as it gets right now though. So if you need treatment and are unraveling because of the uncertainty of the world and your future, there is no better time than now to go to treatment.
For questions or comments contact Joanna.
