This is embarrassing, but I find myself scared and anxious about Covid. I’m afraid to leave the house, and I’ve had several anxiety attacks, worrying sick about catching the virus. Some of my friends laugh it off and think I’m overreacting. Am I overreacting? Am I just being paranoid?
You said in a previous column that there are different self-help techniques for anxiety reduction. I could use some help with my anxiety. Can you please discuss some of these?
Your article on Change was very interesting, but I find it difficult, if not impossible, to make certain changes. Is there a technique for accomplishing necessary changes?
A long term friend has lately become mean-spirited. Many of his friends agree and some have even told him he’s being mean. We all think the lockdown has affected him. He is very social and is probably feeling the distancing more than others. How do we deal with him? Do we write him off or confront him?
Michelle Obama’s announcement that she is suffering with “low grade depression” made something quite clear—mental health issues are neither class-conscious, gender-conscious, nor color-conscious. They are equal opportunity afflictions because none of us are immune to how our minds and hearts react to the issues that affect our lives.
I keep hearing about the “New Normal.” Isn’t that just a nice way of saying everything’s changing? And how good can change be when it’s happening all the time?
I find myself to be sad about all the terrible situations regarding the Covid virus that I hear about on TV or read in my hometown newspaper. I've even burst into tears after reading about someone I knew, but certainly wasn't close to. Do I have depression?
A few weeks ago we spoke of couples who shelter in place, setting aside some time each week to discuss their wants and needs. I suggested a couple of rules for a meaningful and fruitful conversation.
I have been fastidious in keeping the virus away, but not everyone seems to care. The other day I stepped outdoors, with my mask on, to take out the trash. My long time neighbor and friend was outside with no mask on. She smiled, began chatting and walking over to me. I put my arm out and asked her to keep her distance. Her expression changed immediately, waving her arms, she turned around and walked away. Was I rude to her?