The following blockquote is from Sunday’s Inverse newsletter. I’ve been following Inverse for some time now as they have some of the most fascinating writing on the web. But their “Sunday Scaries”, which is a series that looks at getting prepared for the start of your week on Monday, has a whole new level of meaning since COVID-19 turned our world upside down.
As we all practice social distancing, it’s becoming apparent mental health is going to become a major issue for some of us. But during this time, we all must remember that we matter.
A warm thank you from Sarah Sloat for writing this article: Realizing You Matter Is More Important Than Ever.
This Sunday night, I’m thinking about mattering. Living in self-isolation can be, well, isolating. As nice as it is that we have Zoom happy hours and FaceTime calls, the gift of wifi isn’t quite the same as seeing a face IRL. Experts emphasize that it’s truly best that we stay separated. Still, loneliness and isolation are not mentally healthy states in which to exist, and they often can come with dangerous side-effects.
What can help fight off these negative feelings? Knowing that you matter. It’s easy to shrug off that idea, or dismiss it as cheesy. But studies show that knowing you matter — truly knowing so — can serve as a vital source of support when you encounter a crisis.
I encourage you to read the Sunday Scaries if you would like some information and tips for coping with social distancing and isolation.
If you would like to subscribe to Inverse (I have no affiliation with them, nor do I get paid to say this) you can sign up for their newsletter.
Photo by Whoisbenjamin on Unsplash