I was out for lunch with a friend recently and we were discussing how the pandemic has turned us into hermits. I feel that this may be true for more than just the two of us. In the beginning, we had no choice because of restrictions, closures, remote work, and stay-at-home orders. As this has morphed into 2+ years now, staying at home has developed into more of a habit – dare I say, maybe even a preference?
For many of us, the anxiety surrounding going out has to do with safety and fear of contracting the virus. But also, for me anyway, our anxiety may come from having to go out - being with family and friends (where there could be drama involved), attending concerts, and public events (fighting traffic and crowds). It’s become so easy to stay home where it’s comfortable, mentally safe, and the outcome is entirely predictable!
Although many of us have fallen into this comfortable pattern (partly because we are exhausted from work, schedules, and running our kids to their extra-curricular events), I feel we must push ourselves to enter society again.
Our souls need connection! Social connection improves our quality of life because conversation and communication improves our mental state. It helps to regulate our emotions and can lower anxiety and depression. I feel that neglecting our need to connect can put our health at risk. We are social beings, and feeling connected gives us the feeling of belonging, and let’s face it, we all want to belong!
I am the biggest culprit of not wanting to leave “the hermit life!” But once I get my butt off the couch, I’m always happy I went out! We can’t let this pandemic cause us to lose connection with family and friends; connection is what we need more than anything right now.
I know we’re still in the middle of this thing; I don’t want to say the word “pandemic” very often as I feel it gives energy to it, which can make it increasingly difficult to connect. However, I encourage you to do all that you can to stay connected. I’m not suggesting you break regulations. I’m just saying, perhaps reach out to those you enjoy being with, get out of the house, and do all that you can to remain social. This is one thing we can do to make sure the “P” doesn’t destroy us all!
They say laughter is the best medicine! Who do we laugh with more than our friends? I know my friends have provided me with hours of laughter, love, and a sense of belonging! Additionally, they’ve provided me with many memories, which make me LOL when I remember them! The trust, support, compassion, and bond I have with these individuals are the necessities that I need to keep going!
We mustn’t wait until life gets back to “normal.” This may be our new normal; life as we knew it could be a distant memory. So, let’s embrace this moment in time exactly how it is! Reach out to family and friends, get outside, go to a movie, and do whatever it is for you that allows you to temporarily forget about what’s happening in the “real world”! Your mental health will thank you, and so will your loved ones!
Stay strong friends and reach out to someone who makes you laugh and feel connected!
Until next time…this hermit is going out!