March marks the one year anniversary of the pandemic’s most significant initial impact on the United States. That’s just over 365 days since we have worked inside the walls of an office, hugged our friends, gone on vacation, or been to a concert. If the weight of this past year has taken a toll on you – you are not alone.
Psychologists specializing in trauma describe anniversaries of all types as significant. This is because our bodies and brains are believed to store memories that can be triggered by certain dates or seasons. The one year anniversary of the pandemic is no exception.
Reactions to grief and loss anniversaries is normal and acknowledging them is healthy. One concrete way to do this is to practice self-reflection.