Ask Aunt B

Dear Aunt B,

I feel that people are treating me different because I tested positive for covid19. I did everything I was told and I quarantined just like I was told. I never really had any problems with the virus but now I feel like people are judging me.

No longer contagious

Dear No longer contagious,

I was just wondering about this the other day. I even called it Covid Shame. I believe we will have psychological ramifications of this virus for quite some time.

I have questions I would like to ask you but of course that isn’t possible. How do you feel people are treating you differently? Do you feel ashamed of having the virus? Do people seem to feel that you are still contagious? Are you afraid you didn’t do enough to escape the virus? Do you feel getting the virus was some kind of punishment? All interesting questions to ponder. However we are here for answers, right?

I believe the most important thing you can do is to begin immediately taking better care of yourself. That is the topic I feel isn’t getting enough attention. Improving our immune system and getting generally healthy is very important. Always has been but this virus has called it into our greater attention. I believe if you are taking better care of yourself you could just possibly care less what others are thinking and more what you are thinking. Some ways to better care for yourself are more sleep, better eating habits, exercise, and stress reduction.

If people are treating you differently, you might need some new people. You can also ask the question, “are you afraid to be around me because I had covid”? This communication can get it out in the open. Individuals could be unaware of how they are acting.

I know I sound like a broken record, possibly you need to forgive yourself for having covid. It is not that you did anything wrong or should need forgiveness. We are just so very hard on ourselves for everything. I have noticed that people feel guilty and worry that they could have infected others. I understand that but no one (I hope) would be malicious in trying to spread this or any virus.

It is important that we develop better communication around our discussions of this virus. There are many different beliefs about all aspects of covid. One thing for sure is we need more understanding and kindness around all aspects.

If you are reading this and feel that you have covid or symptoms that could be covid or any virus, don’t hide out because you are ashamed. Call your doctor. Most doctor’s offices are offering televisits and can offer you some assistance.

Love,

Aunt B

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