This pandemic has changed all of our lives as none of us could have ever imagined, even the elderly generation, has stated that they have never witnessed anything like this in their lifetimes. Who would have thought that the entire world would have been shut down at one point? The fact that we haven’t been able to see our loved ones, hug people, unable to visit our sick family and friends who are hospitalized, and our kids/grandkids not being able to socialize with their friends has been extremely difficult for most.
For those people who are already suffering with depression, the pandemic has made them sink further into that dark hole, particularly, if they live alone. They have nothing but time on their hands other than to think, think, think. They shut down and shut people out and the people, who have been locked out, have no idea as to why; therefore, they are left scratching their heads and wondering what they could have possibly done to offend them. Those who are depressed may be ashamed to tell their friends and family members why they are so distant, but they shouldn’t be. We all have our struggles. At least in communicating that you need space, they will understand that it’s not them and, who knows, you might just find out they can be a great listener or pray along with you. Depression is real in itself but coupled with this pandemic, it’s an absolute beast.
I have been afforded the opportunity to spend time with a few folk, which includes my parents and I’m grateful for that. While I miss being out and about as well as missing the human touch (hugging), I haven’t been depressed although I suffered with it and through it in the past. Perhaps, it’s because my 5-year-old granddaughter lives with me and keeps me quite busy, which is a blessing in of itself. I can say that I’ve appreciated the shut down because it has allowed me to slow down. I didn’t realize just how busy I was until there was nothing that I could do.
My granddaughter, on the other hand, misses her friends terribly and will say to me from time to time that I get to see my “friends” meaning my coworkers. Even though she and I talk about the coronavirus and why I have to keep her safe, she doesn’t understand why her life has been turned upside down and disrupted the way it has been. She is a social butterfly and enjoys playing with and talking to her friends. I try and keep her busy by doing various activities with her and one of my best friends will come by sometimes to join us in our fun or we will visit them, which is something she always looks forward to.
I haven’t hugged my parents in months and trust me I miss not being able to do so when I visit them occasionally. I’m a very huggy, feely type person and I love giving and receiving hugs. I have to admit this is the piece that is really difficult for me.
As we all try to adjust to this “new” norm, please don’t allow yourself to shut down mentally, physically or emotionally. When you find yourself depressed, think of things that you can do to put your mind at ease, i.e., praying, taking a walk through your neighborhood, calling a friend, writing, exercising, reading, etc. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what you’re dealing with; it’s a tough load to carry singlehandedly. I know about depression and it’s all consuming manner, as I lived that for many a years alone because I was too embarrassed to talk about it. Just to think I would have taken my life had I not been afraid of what people would think of me. During this pandemic, there have been those who have committed suicide because the pressure of being alone was just too great for them to bear. Please don’t let this be you. Depression is no joke!
Don’t be embarrassed
You’re not alone
Always remember, #GurlYouGotItGoinOn
Love ya,
Grace ❤️
P.S.: I now have a podcast that is featured on Spotify, Anchor as well as Apple Podcasts and a few others, which you may find under Grace Deveraux or “Take A Leap With Grace.” Also, videos and other “tidbits” are uploaded to my Instagram account, @Gracedeveraux, or my Facebook page, Grace Deveraux, each Friday afternoon. Please stop by and check out what I’ve been up to. 😊
Grace Deveraux 