The short answer is, “Probably not completely.” I mean, let’s face it. Is anyone really alright at the moment? We’re trying to make the best of things, look at our blessings, and looking forward to watching Hamilton on Disney Plus in July. But in our minds, we are oscillating between helplessness and outrage as the world burns down.
At the beginning of the lockdown, I asked students to collaborate on a COVID-19 Diary. It has been awhile since anyone has added to it, but you can see that, for the most part, student were trying to be light-hearted, but definitely missing the social aspects of being at school with friends.
You can see the same themes running through NPR’s “Postcards from the Shutdown” and the incredibly creative memes submitted by the students of Noa Daniels here. Even though the children are finding unique, and sometimes humorous, ways to display their feelings, we’ve got to remember the toll that this must be taking on them – and us. In this incredible video that she made for a school project, Liv McNeil gives what I believe to be a very accurate representation of what many people are experiencing today. (Here is a link to an interview with McNeil about her film.)
Just like most parents, I try to give my teenager some space while still letting her know that I care. I feel like this is the time we all need to be particularly vigilant, though. Masks worn to disguise depression are definitely not healthy – for anyone.
I am not a doctor and do not have any training in counseling or psychology. I am including resources that I have curated over time to help those with depression and/or their friends, parents, and educators. Please consult a licensed professional to help you if you or someone you care about is in a crisis.
