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Pandemic Claustrophobia: How Much Family Time Is ‘Too Much’?

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The Coronavirus outbreak is dramatically changing our lives, including our relationship with our family. It is not yet known how long these measures may last. Coronavirus has made people less self-centered and more family-centric. It is a fact that hard times have always led to stronger families. We are spending far more time than we are used to with our family.

During this time of crisis, our family is hugely important for getting us through the pandemic. What could be better than to have three piping hot meals together and cook meals for your family? You can also call out to your mother as much as possible. Breaking up from my normal routine has also freed up time to play outside.

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However, amidst all this comfort, there is always a fear of losing one’s independence and privacy. I miss my personal space and the time spent hanging out in restaurants or the gym with my friends. This has heightened the anxiety, anger, and frustration inside me.

I think it is definitely way too much togetherness. Not going out for an hour or so is taking its toll. Sometimes I feel sick of looking at the same faces. If you are working from home like me, it is also hard to sometimes constantly be surrounded by people, especially when you are working. Amidst this, your house also calls for a cleaning.

Sliding back to childhood patterns of being at your home felt somewhat inevitable. Sipping coffee with friends just is not the same when you are drinking tea with your parents. While cooped-up I am intensely sick of day-to-day whining and bickering. My mom is obsessed with COVID-19 coverage and consumes it 24/7 and keeps bothering me about the latest news. While I am serious about the pandemic, I am more concerned about my mom’s obsession with it. Moreover, forcing multiple generations to live in the same place can test our patience.

Such changes in our relationships are probably all the harder to cope with. I know we are altogether capable of weathering this challenge, but it will change the innocence of what we kept intact for so long. So, it is worth trying to to be extra patient and understanding in these times.

The pandemic has resulted in a rise in depression, anxiety, conflict, as well as instability during our home confinement. However, amidst this situation, you cannot deny the fact that the comfort and safety that you find in your home is second to none.

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