To overcome means to succeed with dealing with a problem or difficulty. It also means to defeat an opponent; to prevail.

Our current state of affairs, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has caused each and every person to rise to the occasion. We have learned that this faceless enemy does not discriminate. I have associated this virus with the fictitious enemy, “The Nothing,” named in the classic movie, “The NeverEnding Story.”

“The Nothing” was a force of darkness that ravaged the land of Fantasia — which experienced hopelessness, depression, grief and loss as a result. Although Fantasia was a mystical and imaginary place, we can all relate to the impact of “The Nothing.”

COVID-19 is our modern day, “The Nothing.” Just as Fantasia needed a hero, which showed up in the person of a warrior named Atreyu and a young boy named Bastian, we also seek out heroes among us.

Our heroes are packaged in many different ways. A hero is a person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements or noble qualities. Heroes are born out of adversity and respond to the call of duty.

Our heroes are those in the medical profession who attend to the sick and suffering to facilitate healing, and in some cases, palliative care. Our heroes are childcare educators who tend to the children so that parents may complete the task at hand. Our heroes are those who seek to take care of the elderly by not exposing them to the virus.

They may be dressed in uniform like the local policeman who helps to serve and protect, the paramedic who shows up on the scene or the individual serving in the military — but they are all heroes.

We all have a role to play in overcoming “The Nothing.” A special thanks to our heroes – the researchers and scientists who work tirelessly day and night to find a cure. We acknowledge with much gratitude the grocery store workers, restaurants, delivery drivers, social services and clergy personnel who help to meet various essential needs.

It is imperative that we recognize our limitations as we seek to overcome this communal enemy. This victory will not come without cost. Costs include loss of life and the loss of the way things were prior to this pandemic.

Change is happening rapidly, which may cause compounded stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other forms of emotional instability. Take advantage of services being offered to improve your emotional and mental health.  

Lastly, we can overcome “The Nothing” by remaining hopeful. My faith has been a constant source of encouragement during these difficult times. I would also emphasize the power of prayer. Not only does prayer change things, but it can also be the catalyst for change in us.

Related content from our mental health professionals:

Coronavirus fears: Tips for coping with your anxiety

Taking care of yourself during a time of crisis

Additional coping strategies include:

Limit how much news you take in, as this can be a factor that drives depression and anxiety.

Spend time outdoors as often as you can to get some sunlight and vitamin D, which helps deter depressed mood.

Surround yourself with positive people, as well as those who have similar goals and aspirations.

Take advantage of exercise — a wonderful stress reliever, as it releases endorphins to improve mood.  

Continue to do those things which help save lives and bring about desired change. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identifies the importance of handwashing, physical distancing, the wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE) and quarantining to further save lives and mitigate the spread of the virus.

If you need mental and emotional support during this season of uncertainty, please contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at (901) 683-5658. We are here to help.

Fredrick Gillam, Jr., LPC

Counselor

Fredrick Gillam Jr. is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a designation of Mental Health Services Provider. He has experience with specialized populations including victims of domestic violence, trauma, and substance abuse. Fredrick’s passion to bring about change for individuals and families has been displayed through his use of evidenced based practices. He utilizes modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma Therapy. Fredrick is a graduate of Harding School of Theology, where he earned a Master of Arts in Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy.

Outside of the professional venue, Fredrick enjoys spending time with his family. He is an Ordained Minister and is actively involved in his church and the community. He is an avid reader, appreciates a good movie, and loves to be outdoors and go for walks.