How to remain kind to each other while we all respond differently to coronavirus stress?

Understanding the Change Curve increases compassion and makes for an easier dialogue to find solutions together.

We're all trying to cope,
Everyone in their own best way:

Are you arguing more with your partner?
Trying to hide your fears for the kids?
Being angry with those
Who don't keep to social distancing?
Finding it hard to sleep at night?

I recorded a video
That helps to understand
Why you and those around you
Might be having different responses
In how we try to deal with COVID19.

Watch it, and you'll increase

Your compassion for yourself and others,
Plus it will make the conversation easier
To give to each other what we need right now:

We are all trying to cope in different ways:

It can look like hiding in the laptop,
Or non-stop news checking.
For others it's feeling more tearful
Or angry with this-that-and-the-other.
For some it's a spiritual opportunity.
And yes, for others it's pretending
All is fine (and ignoring social distancing).

Five Phases of Change

Denial / Shock
Disbelief, looking for evidence that it isn’t true. Trying to deny the reality of the situation. We’re thinking “This isn’t happening [to me], this can’t be happening”. It is a common reaction to rationalise our overwhelming emotions.
Frustration / Anger
Recognising that things are different, but fighting the change. The anger may be aimed at inanimate objects, complete strangers, the government, friends or family. We blame others. For some of us, feeling angry is easier than sitting with our fears.
Bargaining
When we feel helpless or vulnerable we try to regain control through a series of “if only” statements. “If only the government had done so-and-so. If only we had started to self-isolate sooner”.
Depression / Low Mood
Lacking in energy, tearful, sadness and worry. Simple reassurance, helpful cooperation and kind words can ease these feelings.
Acceptance / Integration
We start to experiment and engage with the new situation.