A lot of people are experiencing unnecessary guilt right now, so you’re not alone if you can relate. Talking to friends and family members who understand can help.
If, despite your efforts, you’re still experiencing a lot of guilt or it’s interfering with your ability to function, consider seeking professional help. Guilt can be a symptom of depression, PTSD, or other mental health issues.

How to Deal With the Guilt You Feel During the Pandemic

Don’t waste your energy fighting your guilt or thinking, “I shouldn’t feel this way.” Ignoring it or even trying to suppress it won’t work.Instead, notice your feelings and acknowledge it. Put a name to it. Studies show that just labeling your feelings can help them feel less intense.

Acknowledge and Accept Guilt 

Be aware of the other emotions and mood you experience when you’re around other people too. If someone tries to force you to go on guilt trips, set boundaries. Refuse to be “guilted” into doing things you don't want to do.

Pay Attention to the People You Surround Yourself With

Guilt feels uncomfortable. So when you experience it, you may be tempted to take whatever steps you can to feel better. But if you’re not careful, the action you take to relieve your guilt might not be healthy.Ultimately, you may end up feeling even guiltier for taking actions out of an attempt to alleviate your guilt.

Monitor Your Behavior

Pay attention to the story you are telling yourself and ask if there’s another way to look at the situation. You might discover a slight <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/negative-self-talk-and-how-it-affects-us-4161304">shift in the way you think</a> about the situation can help you feel better.If you think, “I’m a horrible person for not helping my parents,” you’ll feel bad. But, if you remind yourself, “I’m doing the most loving thing I can right now by staying away,” you might feel a little better.

Change the Story You Tell Yourself

Here are a few reasons why some people may be feeling more guilty during this time:<ul><li>Being quarantined and perhaps working from home has increased your quality of life.</li><li>Your kids and family have been affected.</li><li> It has become much more difficult to assist those who are in need of help during this time.</li><li>You did or didn't follow social distancing rules.</li></ul>

Things You Might Feel Guilty About During the Pandemic

Here are several reasons why people experience more guilt during the pandemic:<ul><li>People are suffering. If you’re not suffering as much as other people, you might experience guilt that you’re doing OK.</li><li>Other people might shame you for your good fortune: a promotion or celebrating a birthday—or even for being in a good mood.</li><li>The usual rules don’t apply. Many of the things you held dear prior to the pandemic—like visiting your parents often and limiting your kids’ screen time—may no longer be options or priorities.</li></ul>

Why You Might Feel More Guilty Now

It’s important to show yourself some compassion, ditch the harsh self-criticism, and learn to be kinder to yourself.A great way to practice self-compassion is to ask yourself, “What would I say to a friend who felt this way or had this problem?” Chances are, you'd be kind.Responding to yourself with that same type of kindness and compassion can help alleviate some of the unnecessary guilt you feel.

Practice Self-Compassion

Your guilt may be a reminder that you should <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-apologize-more-sincerely-3144467">apologize</a> to someone you've hurt.If you messed up, acknowledge your mistake to the other person. Say you’re sorry without making any excuses for your behavior and accept full responsibility.You may also feel guilty even when you haven’t done anything wrong. Acknowledge the difficulties the other person is experiencing, but don’t give an unnecessary apology.

Apologize If You’ve Hurt Someone

Guilt is a powerful emotion, and there are many reasons you might be feeling extra guilty during a pandemic. Here's what you can do about it.

Acknowledge and Accept Guilt

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