A Psychologist’s Reflections on Quarantine and Coping With Change

Updated on: April 27, 2024
Published on: April 27, 2020
Author: Kentucky Counseling Center

For many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic felt like it stretched on indefinitely. Quarantine, once unimaginable, became our day-to-day reality. Initially, it might have seemed like we’d be sheltered at home for only a few weeks, but reality shifted as lockdowns, social distancing, and remote work or school endured far beyond that original estimate. While global restrictions have since relaxed, much of the lingering emotional impact remains. Below, I share my observations and notes from my own time in quarantine—as both a psychologist and a person adapting, grieving, and seeking hope in an uncertain world.

Observations From an Extended Quarantine

It once felt like day 300 of the “temporary” quarantine; objectively, it had only been about five weeks at the time. Now, years later, it’s enlightening to look back on how our collective and individual experiences shaped new perspectives.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

I noticed myself bouncing back and forth—seemingly at random—between calm, rational detachment and waves of worry, uncertainty, tears, and sadness. The latter was definitely not my usual baseline. Mental health experts, including the American Psychological Association, emphasize that these strong emotional swings are normal responses to prolonged stress and social isolation.

• Calm vs. Chaos: Some days felt relatively productive, while others were consumed by tears and restlessness.
• Grief and Loss: Many of us faced multiple types of loss at once—loved ones, social connections, financial stability, major life events.

Understanding that grief and anxiety were part of my daily emotional diet helped me accept—and eventually better manage—these feelings.

Technology: A Blessing and a Challenge

Work, Emails, and Telehealth

I spent countless hours at my computer, grateful for a job that allowed remote work. My focus at that time was transitioning our brick-and-mortar psychology training clinic to telehealth, so our graduate students could keep providing psychotherapy services. I had no clue initially about the logistical or ethical requirements, so I dived into webinars, articles, and resources from colleagues.

• Information Overload: Emails and listservs became a double-edged sword. It was akin to drinking from a firehose—lots of new information, but also lots of noise.
• Embracing Video Calls: My online calendar filled with Zoom links, each requiring attention and organization. Thankfully, technology bridged physical distances, allowing us to stay connected with clients, students, and colleagues.

Limiting the Media

With so many sources of news—online, television, and social media—I found it essential to choose just a few reliable outlets and limit my daily exposure to about 30 minutes. Research from the World Health Organization also confirms that managing media consumption can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Finding Hope in Leadership and Collective Good

Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky offered a shining example of compassionate leadership by holding daily press conferences at 5:00 p.m., reminding us that “we will get through this together.” Listening to leaders who humanized the crisis, expressed empathy, and demonstrated concern for public well-being provided a sense of stability.

I also recognized the inherent goodness of humanity in these unprecedented circumstances. Communities worldwide made sacrifices, supported one another, and adapted quickly to protect the most vulnerable. From neighbors delivering groceries to the elderly, to companies shifting production to medical supplies—these actions underscored our collective capacity for kindness and resilience.

Coping With Grief and Loss

While public attention centered on COVID-related deaths, we were all reminded that life—and death—still continue beyond the pandemic. A close friend of mine passed away due to unrelated health issues, and the loss hit me like a ton of bricks. The pandemic restrictions made traditional funerals and gatherings impossible, but we improvised.

• Virtual Memorials: My fraternity brothers and I set up a video call with over 50 attendees to pay respects and share memories. We also created a virtual memory board for stories and photos, ultimately sending it to his family.
• Shared Mourning: Even separated physically, technology provided a way to grieve and honor our loved ones together.

Telehealth and the Future of Healthcare

One of the silver linings of the pandemic was the surge in telehealth. What started as a necessity is now recognized as a promising path forward, expanding access to mental health and other healthcare services for people in remote or underserved areas.

• Accessibility: Video sessions can remove hurdles like transportation, scheduling, or mobility issues.
• Flexible Care: Even as we return to more in-person interactions, telehealth remains a viable option for continued treatment and counseling.
• Ethical and Practical Guidelines: Organizations like the American Psychological Association have released telehealth guidelines ensuring ethical practice and patient confidentiality.

Rediscovering Resilience and Adapting to Change

Life goes on in the midst of crisis. Babies are born, couples get engaged, kids still have birthdays, and, yes, I indulged in more chocolate chip cookies than ever. Through it all, I found hope in witnessing life’s small joys—reminders that not everything was on hold.

Silver Linings

• We Are Capable of Change: We learned to pivot quickly, from office-based work to remote operations, from large gatherings to virtual meetups, proving our adaptability.
• Community Support: People stepped up for one another in ways big and small—fundraising for neighbors, donating masks, or volunteering time.
• Mental & Emotional Resilience: Despite challenges, many discovered newfound strengths and coping strategies.

Looking Ahead

The vision of returning to handshakes, hugs, dancing, and gatherings kept me hopeful. While the world may never be exactly as it was pre-pandemic, resilience and compassion can guide us toward a future shaped by both lessons learned and renewed connections.

Join the Conversation

What thoughts and feelings are you having during these challenging times? I invite you to share in the comments below. Let’s keep this conversation going—mental health benefits when we open up to one another. If you’d like to stay connected:

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By supporting each other, we can navigate uncertain times with hope, empathy, and resilience.

Author

By Mental Health Blogger David Susman