Does Anyone Else Feel Especially Sad Lately?

Absolutely. Frankly, at this point, I don’t know anyone who isn’t struggling. Covid makes life so stressful in so many ways. It amplifies one’s other concerns, difficult to remain cheerful rather than overwhelmed Living alone often exacerbates feelings of isolation, depression, anxiety, we just don’t know what will happen next. Trying to be patient and strong long term is exhausting.
Yes it is exhausting! It's been hard for me to get back to the replies because it seems to bring up more sadness for me and I'm trying to fend off the sadness. But my feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety have been amplified lately and I try my best to keep them at bay until I'm almost to the breaking point where I can't stop those feelings any longer.

You are so right about not knowing what is next. Today I was sitting here counting the days from when I was at the grocery store and noticing I have been sneezing and nose running and a bit of a cough...and then wondering if I am coming down with the virus or is it my allergies acting up worse than usual. I do this after every time I go to a store or encounter people. It can be very tiring doing this but seems like it's almost necessary in these days. Worrying about catching the virus must be on many people's minds after they go out anywhere these days. And I often feel just so worn out from it all lately. I will be so happy when this period of time comes to an end. I have almost lost my hope about it ever getting better and then I have to remember I have always been a person who practices hope. So, I'll try to muster some up!

Thank you for your posts.
 

When I'm feeling a bit down, I make my way to the big mirror in the hall. I turn and face the mirror and tell the bloke looking at me,"You are one really handsome beggar", but he always replies, "Why thank you, but I can't lie, Ferry, you're not."
Hmmmm......I've got the utmost respect for truthful mirrors, but it would be nice if it fibbed now and again. 😊
Your keen sense of humor is always appreciated!
 

In my opinion it would be abnormal to not feel sad. Between the virus and all of its impacts and the toxic political/behavioral situation we are in you (we) are completely justified in feeling sad.

Intellectually, we know that "this too will pass", but emotionally it is another matter as we contemplate not being able to quickly return to a life that we knew and loved. The inability to interact with loved ones, travel, enjoy eating out, and feel good about our futures is very draining.

I suppose that this emotional strain is similar to that felt during WWI and WWII, when things were not looking good at all, but our parents and grandparent hung in there and the world recovered. We shall do the same. Our role is to do the best we can under the circumstances and fight our way through these times even as we do feel sad.

Ruthanne, I think there is real merit in raising this subject for discussion as you have done. This forum is full of supportive people and you are one of them. Hang in there my friend!
Yes, I'm hanging in there and thank you. I have to remember that: "This too shall pass." And the sooner the better! ;) It is a big emotional strain for most. On TV they have been bringing up our mental health in regard to covid and I think it said more than 40% are suffering more now during these virus times.
 
I suppose that we can all find some beauty to divert our emotions away from the dark side. I watch the sunset every evening and the beauty of it is very uplifting. Coffee in the morning with my wife and the two Bichons is beautiful and makes me feel good. The moon is there to enjoy when the dogs make their final potty call before bedtime. Talking on the phone with family members and friends helps me stay balanced. Exercising daily and minimizing exposure to the news is extremely important.

Oh yes, indulging in my favorite ice cream plays a role too.

What are your little tricks for staying upbeat?
Well, been trying to keep "up" with nice music and talking to the pets mostly. I take the dog out and we walk. I try to get enough sleep but lately haven't been able to and that's been a strain as it makes things feel even worse than they are. I Did manage to get a nice 2 hour nap this afternoon which really helped. Ice cream would be real nice! I'm glad you find things in your life to make you happy! 🐸 (y)
 
@Ruthanne. I try to grow plants and/or herbs indoors. The reason I am writing this in response to your post is that the very nature of growth gives me a positive lift in my mood. Psychologically seeing growth gives hope and future. I have also put a new stand in the garden with hangers for the birds which gives me a lift.
The continuous news about Covid 19 and the reactions/protests against the restrictions in many countries is disheartening, but I feel that anything that has growth, counteracts the negativity we can be continuously exposed to. Not sure if this carries any weight but it's just some thoughts. I hope you find moments away from your sadness however small. 🤗
Plants are great aren't they? I tend to mine every week. The beauty of them all puts me in awe. Your post means a lot, thank you.
 
Ruthanne, all of us here love you and will help you through this. It's only a temporary situation.
I have some exercises that may help. Even if they give you a little HOPE, it's worth a try.
You mentioned your plants. Your plants are ALIVE! Everything is alive. REALIZE THIS! Be thankful to be alive.
First, take out two pieces of paper.
On one sheet of paper, write down all the things you're thankful for. Your house? your plants? your pets? clean sheets? food? fresh air?
your vehicle? just list everything you can think of. They don't have to be things. They can be qualities and attributes.
On the second piece of paper, write down all the things you LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF. let's see. " people on SF like me, I have a nice figure, I like my hair, I'm kind. I am gracious. I'm healthy." whatever you can think of! your accomplishments, your personality, everything.
Come on, You can think of more than that! keep writing!
Now, Go to the mirror, look at yourself and SMILE! I know this sounds stupid but it's a "fake it until you make it".
EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE FINE!
Do you have access to "affirmations" on the computer? Quotes that you can repeat, even if you don't believe them yet? Just repeat them. Remember them and they will become part of you and help you through the rough spots, like now.
Next: Eat right. Eat protein. Move. Play music you like. Dance by yourself. Dance with your dog.
One thing is to clean and organize your surroundings. Prepare yourself and your home, your property for wonders to occur.
Pray. Ask your angels to surround you and help you through this. You may not see them of hear them, but FEEL them with you. Believe me, they are with you! BE AWARE OF THEM! They cherish you and want to help you.
Do you have a goal? Something you would like to accomplish? Do one little thing every day towards that goal. Keep it in your mind that you WILL DO THIS! Plan it. Think about it.
Keep telling yourself, EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE FINE! because it WILL! (Sorry to be so verbose!)
Between all of us, we will get you back on track!
Ruthanne’s current goal is to find a way to worry less about a serious medical condition by obtaining one off those, life alert services. I’ve run out of suggestions. Perhaps you could research this for her and help her out that way?
 
Ruthanne, all of us here love you and will help you through this. It's only a temporary situation.
I have some exercises that may help. Even if they give you a little HOPE, it's worth a try.
You mentioned your plants. Your plants are ALIVE! Everything is alive. REALIZE THIS! Be thankful to be alive.
First, take out two pieces of paper.
On one sheet of paper, write down all the things you're thankful for. Your house? your plants? your pets? clean sheets? food? fresh air?
your vehicle? just list everything you can think of. They don't have to be things. They can be qualities and attributes.
On the second piece of paper, write down all the things you LIKE ABOUT YOURSELF. let's see. " people on SF like me, I have a nice figure, I like my hair, I'm kind. I am gracious. I'm healthy." whatever you can think of! your accomplishments, your personality, everything.
Come on, You can think of more than that! keep writing!
Now, Go to the mirror, look at yourself and SMILE! I know this sounds stupid but it's a "fake it until you make it".
EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE FINE!
Do you have access to "affirmations" on the computer? Quotes that you can repeat, even if you don't believe them yet? Just repeat them. Remember them and they will become part of you and help you through the rough spots, like now.
Next: Eat right. Eat protein. Move. Play music you like. Dance by yourself. Dance with your dog.
One thing is to clean and organize your surroundings. Prepare yourself and your home, your property for wonders to occur.
Pray. Ask your angels to surround you and help you through this. You may not see them of hear them, but FEEL them with you. Believe me, they are with you! BE AWARE OF THEM! They cherish you and want to help you.
Do you have a goal? Something you would like to accomplish? Do one little thing every day towards that goal. Keep it in your mind that you WILL DO THIS! Plan it. Think about it.
Keep telling yourself, EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE FINE! because it WILL! (Sorry to be so verbose!)
Between all of us, we will get you back on track!
Thanks and for reminding of things I've forgotten. Much appreciated!
 
Thankyou for your kind words and concern aneeda , 😘

I’m so sorry to hear of your situation with your son, you sound amazing and so does your son , bless him.....xx

My husband and I have literally been together (joined at the hip) 24/7 since we met 36 yrs ago...after our both disastrous first marriages.......I would be totally lost without him,even for a few hours ......
Thankfully his brain wasn’t affected and he’s my guidance and councillor , my soul mate, .....
I dread to think what is at the end of our tunnel.......No Light....😢🙁
I'm thinking of you, @Ruthanne

There seem to be some times, to just hang in there.
🌿🌳🍁
Thank you @Kaila yep, that's about all we can do atm.
Hugs, Ruthanne🥰🌸
 
I've been trying to fight it off but it's apparent that I am feeling sad in so many ways. So many things happening and it's just hard. I feel it must be the same for many
My heart goes out to you Ruthanne. I know it must be extra hard when you live alone and I know you're still missing your sweet little Alice too. Those things coupled with the restrictions of the pandemic, the unrest and turmoil in the world especially lately has got to contribute a lot to your mood and state of mind. I think that things will get brighter and feel more positive once the virus is under control and life is a bit more of what we're all used to.

I don't have anything bad happening in my life here, but I also feel a bit down and stressed, hard not to right now. I hope you feel better soon and that grey cloud overhead starts to let in some warm positive light. Love and hugs my friend. 🌷

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I feel more anxious and concerned over Covid. I fear for my entire family. I talked to my family doctor about my fears and she didn't seem to be concerned. Said it was normal ... because of the Covid and quarantining the way I do and not being able to travel to see the family.
 

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