People think my name is Mexican or Italian. Others want to believe I'm Hawaiian. Some just want to call me Uncle.
27 | Asian American | He, Him, His | Gay | Midwest | Social Work
Community support for Ma'khia Bryant has included her neighbors and broader community members, and Ohio State university students who occupied Ohio Union demanding that the university cut ties to local police.
Police have murdered at least 4 children in the past two weeks.
I had been trying not to post about the coronavirus situation as I know it can be very triggering for some people, and that seeing information about it all over Tumblr can make it feel like there’s no escape from hearing about it. Nonetheless, I felt I should share some thoughts about this situation. (Though, note, I am not a medical or mental health professional)
Firstly…
It’s okay to be scared about the virus. It’s new and uncertain - that’s inherently scary.
BUT
It is also true that the media is preying on our fear, which can make things seem worse than they are.
Things that you can do that may help you to feel a bit better about the situation:
Do what you can that’s within your control to keep yourself healthy. Wash your hands, stop contact with others who are ill, try not to touch your face etc. I’m sure you’ve heard this all before!
Make a planforwhat you would do if you were to get ill - look up food delivery services, or ask friends if they would mind dropping food and toiletries at your house. If you don’t find it too triggering, maybe look up some symptoms of the virus and consider how you could deal with them (e.g. which medicines you would use).
Limit the time you spend reading about the virus - staying informed by using reputable resources - e.g. the NHS and WHO - is important, but if you’re constantly checking the news, it’s only going to overwhelm you.
Similarly, block content about it on social media. Block the tag on Tumblr. Hide it on Twitter.
Try and take some time to distract yourself. Plan to watch a film or phone a friend - do something to take your mind off this all.
Journal about how you feel. Or use voice memos. Or play music that you feel is fitting. Just, somehow, let your feelings out about the situation. (This may seem to go against some of these other points about distraction - but it’s all about balance.)
Similarly, maybe phone a friend and talk to them about it all (if they don’t mind dong so). It may be helpful to hear their perspective.
Alternatively, assert boundaries with people when it comes to talking virus. Tell people you’re trying not to think about it, and don’t want to discuss it unless it is necessary. Whatever works for you.
Finally, for those of us missing classes/work/appointments, contact your teachers/employers/therapists if you’re uncertain about any changes - e.g. how exams/sick pay/appointments may change. They may not know the answers, but it can’t hurt to ask.
Self Isolation:
Finally, if you are self-isolating (whether you have the virus, are trying to avoid it, have been in contact with someone with it, are too anxious to leave the house, etc), please look after yourself. We are social animals. We are not meant to be alone for long periods of time.
Stay in contact with other people. Maybe text your friends more, or phone/talk to your family. I know this can be hard - especially if you have social anxiety or depression. But please, at least consider reaching out.
Try opening your windows and curtains every day. Fresh air and vitamin D are good for you.
Although, yes, you don’t ‘have to’, because you aren’t seeing anyone, getting dressed in the mornings and showering can really help your mood.
Again, it can be really difficult to do this any time, but try and eat as healthily as you can, and maybe even try some indoor excercises - e.g yoga or just having a good ol’ dance in your kitchen.
Use 7-cups or other online peer counselling services if that would help you.
I know all of this is hard to process.
It’s okay to be scared. It’s okay to be confused, angry, exhausted… whatever you feel, it’s valid.
