#9 - Sitting with Ourselves During the Covid-19 Crisis (Psychotherapist Jill Bajorek)
Welcome to “The Elements of Being” podcast, where I dissect and explore the minds and habits of filmmakers, writers, and industry icons. Essentially, we learn what makes them flip the switch to achieve great feats, goals, and milestones and a chance to geek out over the psychology behind human behavior.
Today is the new normal for a while, I guess. Amidst the spread of the virus COVID-19, I, like many people across the world, are sheltered in. To think that three weeks ago seems like three years ago….definitely another reality. We are all adapting and find new ways to connect with each other and trying to stay stimulated. Many of our jobs have been threatened, and some have directly been impacted by the illness, including our incredible medical professionals and service workers on the front line. Of course, the fatalities have grown, and more and more families are feeling the infliction of this pandemic.
“How do we deal with this?” is the question we ask ourselves. With the uncertainly of the virus, a vaccine, and the economy, we’re often only left to sit with our uncomfortable thoughts. In my interview with psychotherapist Jill Bajorek, we explore exactly this and much more. She currently practices in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood and works with adult clients experiencing a wide variety of mental health concerns. Jill’s specialties include working with depression, anxiety, adjustment to life events, social fears and exclusion, women’s issues, and LGBTQ+ populations. Truly, I welcomed the therapist's chair on that day. In our conversation, we explore how to no longer float in the clouds and grasp a rope of hope, familiarity, and routine.
Specifically, we examine the fears behind the hoarding of toilet paper, how we are handling our mental and emotional selves day-to-day, the effects of toxic positivity, and finding our identity again during a time of crisis.
As I mentioned, this is a time when everyone is adapting. And this podcast episode is no different. Like the world, I’m still trying to find the best way to connect with people at a time when none of us should be within 6 feet of each other…let alone the same room. Fortunately, Jill was able to call in with some challenges, but we have adapted…and will continue to do so as we overcome this challenge….like we always do. I know we will flip the switch and find new value in our relationships with ourselves, each other, and nature. So, with being said, let’s jump in!
To learn more about Jill, check out Encircle or say hello on Linkedin, Instagram, or Facebook!
“If a house plant is sick, you move it. If it outgrows a pot, you repot it. If it starts to brown on the leaves, you start to assess “am I overwatering or underwatering it?” You don’t point the finger at the plant. You change its environment.”
— Laura Green, Clinical Mental Health Advocate for the Hospitality Industry
