Dear Jido,
My husband has been in a very negative state of mind ever since the pandemic. He seems to always be complaining about something. He hates working from home, misses the office and his closer colleagues, worries constantly about the children getting sick (they’re ages ten and eight), and is always tired. Nothing relieves his gloomy moods. Meanwhile, I’m a born optimist whose parents made the most of every possibility and encouraged my belief in my ability to succeed at whatever I gave a very good try. I have never experienced anything like this before and I don’t know what to do. I would appreciate any suggestions and advice.
Signed,
Concerned
Dear Concerned,
And well you should be. The prolonged Covid isolation has caused many serious, and not so serious, cases of depression, withdrawal, and anxiety for people of all ages in all social strata. Know that you are not alone in your concern.
While many companies have gone back to full or at least partial office attendance, many others have learned to adapt to a remote work force and the savings it offers. Unfortunately, this is often to the detriment of the workers. It has been shown that in extreme cases, “solitary confinement” is a more difficult assignment than hard labor.
Fortunately, we have an organization – Sephardic Bikur Holim – that has been dealing with this and many other mental health issues for members of our community.
Uh oh, did I say – mental health?
Yes. And although no one likes to admit that they have “that” type of problem, it is best to confront it head on and resolve it before it becomes a permanent personality trait.
Contact them. If your husband refuses the assistance, either out of embarrassment or denial, I strongly recommend that you get and follow their expert advice.
No one knows what path this pandemic is going to take. But with your positive attitude, positive actions, and Hashem’s help, you and your husband can quickly get back to the old normal of work, home, and family.
Jido