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48 • TLC—For the Workplace
overwhelms us at any point, we can turn off the television, computer, or radio and engage in another, more relaxing activity (e.g. reading, meditation, exercise, or prayer). The extent to which we monitor our environment and maintain awareness of what happens around us and our reactions to negative emotions or triggers determines our quality of life.
Social Isolation
Socialization is a vital part of life, and without question, mandatory social isolation such as we have experienced during the pandemic can cause depression. It is important to face depression head-on, without viewing it as an ab- normality. In challenging or traumatic times, it is natural for everyone—even the most cheerful among us—to expe- rience situational depression. In the pandemic era, while still socially distancing and changing our everyday habits, we can be prone to sadness, a lack of focus, a sense of help- lessness, insomnia, etc. This condition is less restricting and life-changing than more serious mental illnesses and addictions.
Clinical Depression, Mental Illnesses, and Addictions
When faced with more serious forms of mental illnesses and addictions, people should reach out to mental health specialists, addiction counselors, family members, peers, or clergy. Read motivational books or prayers, listen to au- dios designed to uplift your soul. Call a family member or friend who will listen to your feelings of sorrow or frustra- tion and offer inspiring, uplifting support and solutions. Reach out to support groups through the Internet to share thoughts and emotions with others. Most important, try to replace negativity and depression with a sense of op- timism and hope. It is out there for everyone—for you! Remember that what you feed into—either with thoughts,