The Relationship between the current Global Pandemic (COVID-19) and Depression

 Hey guys! This is not of travel or poetry nature, but I wrote this recently and in light of the times we are facing, I just thought it would be great to share. Feel free to leave any comments below, and I hope you enjoy! 💙

Depression is classified as a mental disorder, and more specifically falls under the classification of Disorders of Emotion. Common symptoms include sadness, feelings of helplessness and lacking the desire to do regular activities. With the emergence of the current global pandemic, depression has arisen and negatively impacted the lives of many people across the globe, who are trying to come to terms with "the new normal." Due to the seriousness of this deadly disease, many rules and protocols have been put in place to keep persons safe amidst these unprecedented times and circumstances. Persons have been mandated to social distance, are unable to attend social events and gatherings, or see family and friends in many instances. The important and crucial aspects of life such as social interaction and physical touch  have been abruptly stripped away, forcing people to have to grapple with a very sad new reality. For those, for example, extroverts who thrive on elements such as social interaction, this has been extremely difficult. This new reality has plunged many people across the world into depression and depressive states, many being unable to grasp and cope with these changes. Many countries having had to mandate lockdowns or shutdowns to slow the spread of this disease, and this has left people stuck at home for periods of time that they have never experienced. For some in abusive or just unpleasant home situations, this has led to the rise of this mental disorder. Not being able to go out and do things for fun, meet up with friends for example, has taken a heavy negative impact mentally on many persons. The strain has also been seen on parents, who now have to get used to having their children for extended periods that they are not use to, homeschooling them, which are added pressures. This has also created a stressful environment for children themselves, who are unable to be as active and interact, play or hang out with friends. It has also tested romantic relationships, as well as relationships amongst family members, who have had to be around each other way more often than they usually do. All these factors have lent to the rise in depression in many persons, and is evident as this tragic event rages on. My recommendation would be in the midst of this negative situation and these trying times, that persons experiencing depression try to turn it into a positive. Use this downtime to find something that brings you peace, if you lost your job, use this as an opportunity to hone in on a skill that you may have an create an income for yourself. Try to discover what you truly love, surround yourself with positive things and interact with positive and uplifting people; you may not be able to physically meet but text, call, skype, stay in touch with those who bring you joy. Don't let depression be the end of your story. Know that things will get better and that you can overcome. Most importantly, do not be afraid to ask for or seek help if you need it; find your happy place, whatever that may be for you and know that this too shall pass.