The COVID-19 pandemic was unprecedented with restrictions, lockdowns, and upheaval that affected millions of people worldwide. Ancestry.com reported a 37% increase in subscribers in 2020 compared to the previous year. We too have noticed a rise in inquiries and that can be attributed to a number of factors.

A Changed Perspective

At a time when human connection became difficult, isolation for a lot of people became the norm. With this isolation came a change of perspective – the void of a missing loved one becoming more apparent, the lack of human contact, and the constant reminder of how fragile and precious life is.

With more time to reflect on our lives and how we can make changes for the better, being separated from our friends and family illuminated what really matters to us in life and the importance of our friendships and relationships. But it made many people think of those that are missing or have never been part of their lives.

It has been a time of personal growth for a lot of people who had decided not to search previously, now wanting to make those connections and fill the void by reconnecting with lost loved ones and friends in order to form meaningful relationships in the future.

A Sense of Urgency

With a change of perspective, a new sense of urgency arose – a thought of “what do I have to lose?” With canceled events, a lack of daily commute, closure of shops, restaurants and businesses, many people found themselves with a lot more time on their hands leaving them to wonder about the missing people in their lives.  

Questions of familial health and thoughts of mortality, also became important for those with missing birth parents or children, concerned about their own health and the potential effect of COVID-19 for the people that they love, and the people absent from their lives. Are they ok? How has coronavirus affected their lives? Have we missed out on the chance to have that meaningful relationship?

Taking That First Step

Restrictions and social distancing certainly didn’t make it easier to meet people during the pandemic… or did it? The Washington Post reported that during the pandemic virtual reunions were increasingly common (think Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, etc.), and not just because of coronavirus. Social distancing and lockdowns helped create more virtual meetings and reunions than ever before – perhaps because it took the pressure off and was certainly less fraught than a physical meeting – safer when wading into emotional waters. During the pandemic, it was the next best option and helped to lay the groundwork for the first in-person meeting once the restrictions were lifted.

Are You Ready to Take the First Step?

Looking for your birth family or a child is one of the most emotional decisions of your life and at The Adoption Specialist, we can provide you with support and expert guidance throughout your search. We have reunited thousands of families over the years who have been separated by adoption or relinquishment, so understand that every search is unique.

Before your search, we will review your information during a free consultation and discuss if you’re ready to begin your search, what you would like to achieve, and what to expect during and after your search.  We also offer an Intermediary Service after your search is complete and can contact your relatives on your behalf if you wish. For more information read our latest blog.

Get in touch to arrange your free consultation on (562) 438-6589 or submit a search request form here.