With the current global pandemic, it is crystal clear that things do not always go as planned. At the very beginning of this elective, we had a very simple yet logical layout on how to carry out our tasks. However, recent events have since rendered most of our efforts moot.
Human beings are creatures of habit, hence any change no matter how minute, can make a big difference. With the current situation, people all over the world have been advised to stay indoors to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Things people did on a regular basis – shopping, catching the bus, walking, hanging out with friends and other activities have been suspended.
Airports and borders have been forced to close down putting a damper on plans made to travel home and see loved ones. Many people battling with anxiety and depression are confined to their homes, leaving them alone with their sad thoughts with no one to share their problems with. Many businesses have also been forced to close down; affecting the source of income for many people. Health care workers have also been working harder than ever to ensure that patients and their families are well taken of. It truly is a dark time.
Nonetheless, we should all still persevere. This is a time where support as well as communication with friends and family is more that important than ever. We should all make sure that our mental wellbeing is still a top priority despite these trying times. Although we cannot hang out physically with loved ones, social media remains available to stay in touch with them. Regarding mental health, services are available 24/7 for anyone who might need them at: https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/mental-health/yourmentalhealth-information-line.html With regards to our SDG, the interviews and some research we planned to carry out would unfortunately no longer be taking place. However, that has not stopped us from working towards our goal. Despite the setbacks we have encountered due to the pandemic, we are still certain that the little contribution we have made towards good health and wellbeing could still make difference. Two steps forward and one step back is still one step forward.
Oghenekevwe Odeghe
Sustainable Development Goals 