Being a Young Adult during COVID-19
Myself, along with many other young adults in the rare and chronic communities, are feeling fearful, anxious, depressed, and frustrated. There are a lot of unknowns when it comes to COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and we all need to start taking it more serious, if we want to overcome this adversity.
When I first learned about COVID-19, I didn’t know what to expect. I closely monitored it. One of my good friends used to live in China (prior to the pandemic) and kept me informed about what was happening and cautioned how the US needed to prepare for what was coming. People my age and younger, think that because they are “healthy,” they don’t need to worry. Yet, this virus is so contagious that you can end up spreading it and impacting someone you know, or even worse, your own family.
I am fortunate enough not to be in the high risk category, but I do have many friends, family, and colleagues who are. They have been on the forefront of my mind and it’s tough to sit back and not be able to do more. In the meantime, I continue to try doing my part, by sharing articles on social media and discussing it with my friends and colleagues. I conveyed how some of my friends and colleagues, were afraid to leave their homes because of the risk factor.
Some are fearful there will be a shortage of medication. What happens if one of them does get COVID-19 and is rushed to a hospital that is already overflowing with many other people? The doctor may have to choose who they will help. My fear is if it’s between someone who is immunosuppressed and a “healthy” person, guess who the doctor will most likely pick?
I have been working remote full time now, for four months and I always make sure that each day I get out of the house at least once a day. Not being able to do that anymore sucks and it’s too frustrating to be inside all day. It is very isolating, especially since I live alone. I already struggle with anxiety. Being physically separated from friends and family only increases those anxious thoughts.
I know I am trying to do my part when it comes to social (physical) distancing while also figuring out different ways to both provide and receive support. I have been trying to do more journaling, FaceTime with friends and family, working out from home, and even online gaming with friends.
On top of all of this, my colleague, Anna Laurent, and I at Our Odyssey, have decided to host more virtual meet-ups through Zoom to support young adults in the rare and chronic communities. Since health conferences have been postponed for April, and May, we want to make sure to keep young adults connected.
What ways are you coping with COVID-19 and if you’re struggling, how can I help you find the support and resources you need during this pandemic?
