-A blog post by Tri-County CEO Tom Petrizzo

While we are getting accustomed to the “new normal” —  stay-at-home orders and extremely dry, but ultra clean hands — I’m thinking this is a good time to get to know ourselves so we can better cope with the current health crisis situation.

“Know Thyself” is a phrase that dates back to ancient Greece where it was inscribed at the temple of Apollo at Delphi and has been referenced in many stories and poems since. 

I was reminded of the importance of “knowing thyself” recently because of conversations with staff, clients and community members.  Many people have asked me about mental health, stress, anxiety, fear and depression. All very understandable concerns given the seriousness of this health crisis. I have specifically been asked: 

  • How do I know if my stress or anxiety levels are too much? 
  • What if this quarantine situation escalates my depression? 
  • Is the fear I’m feeling surrounding the virus abnormal?

I’m sure we have all seen tips for mental wellness posted on social media, along with the clinical considerations for anxiety and depression. But as we reach “max capacity” on absorbing another tip list, it may be simply time to answer some self-reflection questions. As you answer each of these, go with the first and second thing that pops into your head right at this moment.

Ask yourself:

  • What was the last thing that made me laugh today?  Whatever it was, do more of that!
  • What brought me joy today?  Whatever it was, continue to do more of that!
  • What has made me feel tense today?  Avoid that!
  • What causes me to feel down or burdened?  Avoid that!

Most of us know the answers for each of these, and if we don’t, it couldn’t be a better time to identify answers to each of these questions.

Bottom line: use what you know works for “thyself” because this is the start of the healing process. Think of it this way, during this self-isolation period, work to self observe. And use that awareness to better promote wellbeing and personal integrity. 

In the end, self-awareness means knowing your values, personality, needs, habits, emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. With this information, you will be able to motivate yourself, manage your stress and make decisions that bring you joy – TODAY!