Ask the therapist: Does your teen feel isolated post-Covid-19?

I am a 15-year-old girl. I miss hanging out with my friends the way I would during pre-pandemic days. My parents insist I do not go out unnecessarily. I feel emotionally drained. —Name withheld

Dear Writer, this pandemic has really changed our lives so much, and I can feel for you that you miss hanging out with your friends the way you used to. At your age, in particular, it is so important to spend time with your peers for friendship, entertainment and mutual support. Your feeling drained is a symptom of missing out on this important part of your life.

Your parents are trying to protect you and themselves from falling ill with Covid by asking you to stay home as much as you can. Many people are availing themselves of the opportunity to receive a free vaccination to protect themselves and their loved ones. This immunisation drive is in full swing. It will allow us to return to our activities without the worry of becoming seriously ill and infecting our families and other member’s of our community.

If you are going to school, you might be able to spend some time talking to your friends while observing mask and social distancing rules. If parents agree, there might be a place where you can safely spend a few hours with a friend. Make an effort to stay digitally connected to your friends, because you and your friends will benefit from spending time together, even if it can’t be in person.

Please keep in mind that scientists are finding solutions to combat this virus, and it is important for your mental health to see that in the near future, we will be able to return to life as we once knew it.

Dr. Annette is an integrated therapist at https://chmc-dubai.com/--

• Dubai