Feature: What to Do about the Coronavirus Blues

Kate Kampner, '22

WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS BLUES

Kate Kampner, Guest Columnist
published April 28, 2020

As I'm sitting here typing this, the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise. There are hundreds of people dying every day, and some are not even able to say goodbye to their loved ones. It's just depressing. I turn on the radio only to hear the same story on every single channel: the death toll continues to escalate.

This pandemic is horrible; I'm in need of some good news. The constant talk of death and suffering is making me crave something that makes me feel less anxious or sad. To cope during social distancing, I've been taking advantage of this time off by reading and writing more. I’m trying to focus and improve on myself, which I do less during the school year. My family does a movie or a puzzle night, and we've been bonding more than ever. I go on walks every once in a while, or just sit in my backyard when I need fresh air. I do miss my friends though. Even if we were in school right now, we would still be able to go out and see each other, which, for some people, is better than being inside all day. Just like me, some of my friends have also been using this time for their benefit. Some have been painting, writing songs and practicing dance. Others have been staying up until 4 a.m. and sleeping in until 2 p.m., but to them, that improves their mental health.

The constant talk of death and suffering is making me crave something that makes me feel less anxious

Celebrities have also been coming out on social media to try to lighten the mood. John Krasinsky has started a YouTube channel called “Some Good News.” Just like me, he feels that we are in need of some positivity. He shares stories such as those of people in the city clapping for the front line workers or parades for a girl who just finished her last cancer treatment. He did a mini reunion with his former “The Office” co-star, Steve Carrell, and coordinated the original cast of “Hamilton” to sing for a girl whose show got cancelled after Broadway shut down. The smiles on people's faces when he shares these stories definitely lighten the mood.

Although it's not ideal to be stuck inside all day, it is necessary if we want this pandemic to end quicker. You’re probably tired of hearing this, but we have to stop the spread. By staying inside and away from everyone else, you’re doing a great deal for everyone. So take care of yourself, and take advantage of all this time. Find a new hobby, or just sit in your backyard and enjoy the outdoors. You may feel bored and dying to get out of your house, but it’ll be worth it when it's all over.

Designer: D.Hugel