January 27, 2021

Darkness before the light

Actually most of my friends and I have handled the shutdown pretty well. We are lucky to have warm homes and money enough to have our needs met. That means we are able to stay socially distanced. For others, following guidelines has been more challenging. Not surprisingly, the more well off someone is, the easier it is to be socially distant. Some people have really struggled and those struggles are increasing as the pandemic effect lingers on the economy. Hunger is becoming a real issue again. Loneliness can increase despair.

The despair is real and may de deepening, despite progress with the vaccine. It can feel like we will never get out of this place. If you or a loved one is struggling, lots of resources are available. You may be able to find them at your local health department or find resources on line. Here is information for crisis information and for connections.. Please share them.

Some are drinking more than they intend, others are overusing drugs. Domestic violence and child abuse are rising too. Numbers to call for help are below. Please share widely.

Those of us with more secure and easier lives, may not feel the fear of eviction or hunger, but we also feel the despair of loneliness. Please reach out to friends you know that may be alone.

Connecting with others, forest bathing and walking in nature, laughter, and music can help pull us back to the light so we can all be there after COVID.

Wash your hands, cover your nose, keep safe six, and look for the light.

For immediate help, call 911

National Suicide Prevention Lifelineexternal icon: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for English, 1-888-628-9454 for Spanish, or Lifeline Crisis Chatexternal icon.

National Domestic Violence Hotlinexternal icone: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522

National Child Abuse Hotlineexternal icon: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453

https://mobile.va.gov/app/covid-coach

https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/covid-19/support.aspx

https://kingcounty.gov/depts/community-human-services/mental-health-substance-abuse/services/mental-health.aspx

https://www.crisistextline.org

https://www.crisisconnections.org