In past years, Father’s Day, like Mother’s Day, has been a day of celebration for those fortunate enough to have loving fathers, a day of poignant memories for those whose fathers have died, and a day to focus on survival for those whose fathers have been abusive or neglectful.

This year, in lock down, most of us are in survival mode – emotions most likely an exaggerated version of those previously experienced. No one in some states will have opportunity to celebrate face to face with loved fathers. Others, whose grief is raw and painful, may find it difficult to reminisce, even with family, while those whose dad’s were neglectful or abusive may struggle to manage anger or regret.

The Covid-19 pandemic has levelled ’the playing field’ for all of us to some extent – we are all devoid of many of the distracting activities that have helped us live with whatever our reality is. So what can we do on Sunday the 5th September – Father’s Day – to manage thoughts and feelings?

No matter how creative we are, there is no ‘prescription’ that will help everyone – we all have to find what fits best for us.  A few suggestions might provide a starting point for deciding on a plan, a plan which ideally can be changed at the last moment if needs or circumstances change.