Combatting The Bubble

Last week, Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George opened up about some of his mental health struggles inside the NBA bubble in Orlando. George, who has been in the bubble since early July, has experienced anxiety and depression, which negatively impacted his play on the court. George thanked the NBA for creating the bubble and allowing teams to finish the season, but he – and several other players – have had their fair share of difficult moments.

Many of us can probably relate. We may not be professional athletes, and we may not be living at an amusement park, but we’ve all been in a bubble of sorts since March. Many of us are working from home and not seeing family and friends as much (or at all). Our social circles have tightened, and finding a work-life balance – or a mental break from COVID-19 – can be difficult. All of which can negatively impact our “performance” in both our personal and professional lives.

Well, it doesn’t have to be that way. If you’re struggling in your bubble right now, here are some simple things you can do to cope:

Do something with your hands

Physical activity is a great way to improve your mood. It isn’t limited to just going for a walk or run, either. It could be doing something with your hands like drawing, painting, knitting, or trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube. These types of activities engage you physically and mentally and are a great way to combat restlessness. When you finish that drawing, put it on the fridge. When you finish knitting that hat, try it on. If you actually solve that Rubik’s cube, take a picture and send it to me! And, if you want to break a sweat, try a new workout routine. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment that you feel from completing a mental (or physical) task. It will make you feel better about yourself and your situation.

Reflect on the past

With your social life likely taking a hit during the pandemic, now is the perfect time to reflect on the past. Dig up some memories from your closet (like that stuffed animal you carried everywhere as a kid). Flip through an old photo album (is your prom photo as funny as mine?). Take stock of a childhood collection (my husband has more basketball cards than I knew existed). Reconnect with an old friend (wait, it’s been how many years?). Remedy a frayed relationship (do you owe someone an apology?). The present may feel underwhelming, and the future is uncertain. But the past will always be there. Appreciate it. Learn from it.

Confide in someone

Paul George, recognizing that he was in a funk, confided in teammates, friends, and family about his struggles and is “back in great spirits.” It’s okay for you to do the same. By all means, schedule phone or Zoom calls with friends, family, and co-workers; ask about their lives, and tell them about yours. If you’re struggling with something, though, be willing to open up about it. Be willing to be vulnerable. People who care about you want you to be the best version of yourself, and sometimes they can help you achieve that. Let them.
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The NBA season is far from over. In fact, it is slated to last through mid-October. Unfortunately, we don’t know how long our COVID bubble will continue, but there are things we can do to make the most of it.

Engage your mind and body. Reflect on the past. Confide in those close to you.

If all else fails, well, that’s what I’m here for. If you need to talk to someone, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Depression therapy can help. From my bubble to yours, I would be happy to help you along your journey.

Dr. Amelia Powelson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and the owner of Perspective Psychology, LLC. She can be reached at 312.588.9672 or amelia@perspectivepsychchicago.com.