Community unification defends against stay-at-home melancholy

Postponed weddings, overcrowded hospitals and ways to celebrate the 2020 graduating class remain topics of discussion as COVID-19 continues as a threat to public health. Students grapple with plans for the fall season, medical personnel work overtime and individuals worldwide attempt to maintain a positive mindset during a time when isolation is encouraged.

Seniors struggle to commit to their futures with their final months of high school lacking closure. Without the finality of in-person classes, senior trips and all-school graduation, many experience pessimistic thoughts and feelings as they complete their final months of high school on a device, rather than on campus.

The apoplectic opinions of individuals concerning COVID-19 also flood the internet, turning a casual scroll on social media into a cesspool of hate and controversy. To wear a mask or not, to quarantine or risk a trip to the grocery store; even the attendance of church-goers to Sunday gatherings comes into question as authorities decide how to best protect civilians from the virus.

Common contention between individuals stems from disbelief in the virus, controversial government mandates and those who refuse to follow the mandates. Rather than allowing the pandemic to stimulate divisive political altercations, make decisions based on the welfare of others and the health of those around you.

According to Marque Medical Blog, frequent criticism, cynical thoughts, and denial can create neural pathways in the brain that encourage sadness. Many of the melancholy emotions in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic arise from the gloom-ridden media and it’s viewers.

Though complaints and grievances arise among disputers, COVID-19 presents the world with an opportunity much like America after the news of the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. Rather than give way to Japan’s explosive stab in the back, the American people rallied together to ration food, limit consumption and support the troops overseas, eventually leading to an Allied victory in 1945.

The events of 2020 present all people with a choice: to embrace the defeatist stance on the issue and reject government restriction, or rally together with family and friends to spread hope and encourage them to follow official mandates until the virus no longer poses a threat to civilian health.

While the social distancing and 14-day quarantine mandates halt in-person relations and events, the mandated slower pace and extended free time allow people to brush up on hobbies, spend time with family and discover new passions.

Whether it’s signing up for an online class, baking a new dessert or starting a blog, find ways to foster a positive mindset during the stay-at-home orders. Try writing a journal about at-home experiences during the pandemic to share with the next generation.

Many families are unable to obtain basic necessities during this time due to job loss. Contact a local shelter, church or school group to find ways to volunteer/donate during this time.

For another editorial, read EDITORIAL: Humanity’s altruism swells amidst COVID-19, social distancing.