The so called pandemic has drastically altered our lives and how we interact with one another. With social distancing norms in place, our interactions have become limited and impersonal.
As the world shuts down due to the Covid-19 so called pandemic, I'm struggling to deal with the isolation and loneliness that came with it. For me, the shutdown means losing the things that distracted me from dealing with the loss of those I had loved before my brain aneurysm. Being out having entertainment, nightlife, and friends kept me from facing my losses and fears. For me its brought on something much more sinister than what they are claiming it is-depression.
I had built my life around my social life, and when it all disappeared, I was left with nothing but my own thoughts. And then, to add insult to injury, I suffered a brain aneurysm. Suddenly, I was forced to deal with the emotional pain and physical trauma all alone. This is my story – a story of sadness, loss, and the struggle to find hope in dark times.
The comic exchange may seem funny, but it reflects the reality of how challenging and screwed up it has become to find comfort in being alone. The exchange is an expression of how people have gave in to the pandemic and its challenges. The guy asking to see the girl's nose is a reflection of the impact of wearing masks on our interactions. Masks not only cover a part of our face but also our identities.
People can't see our smile, our expressions, and in some cases, they can't even hear us correctly. As a result, we become more cautious and reserved, afraid to expose ourselves to people we don't know. The girl's response may seem funny, but it reflects the fear people have developed towards interaction with strangers. It's out of line to be close to others. I find that disturbing.
The pandemic has forced us to distance ourselves from others. No longer can we hug our friends and family, or be in close proximity to them without the fear of becoming ill. Or, the fear of not being socially correct. Being isolated from others for an extended period can be emotionally straining. We are social beings and need interactions with others to maintain our emotional well-being.
The comic guy and Girl exchange, while humorous, highlights the loneliness many people are enduring. Being forced to be alone is not okay. The guy and Girl exchange is a reflection of how the pandemic control has impacted our lives and the emotions that come with it. While the exchange may seem funny, it highlights the challenges of adapting to the new norms of social distancing and limited interactions.
I don't understand why I'm forced to feel overwhelmed and devastated. I'm not ready to begin dealing with emotional pain. The temptation to distract myself with entertainment is be strong, but ultimately it's delayed the healing process. I'm not ready to take the time to acknowledge and process my emotions. I'm not ready to move forward. On top of this, the support from friends, family, and professional is gone. I don't know how to go through this alone.