[Everyone has a friend]

In this past 76 days (Circuit Breaker period in Singapore), I have interacted with at least 5 people who experienced some form of mental and/or emotional challenges. I spend more time with some than with others.

Some mental and/or emotional challenges are due to the changes in roles and responsibilities, and identity, while working from home, with family in tow. Some are due to the extended period of time spending with family. Some are due to the lack of interaction with others. Some are due to the extended period of time with themselves, and learning to love themselves. Some could be an accumulation of all of the above.

As we continue to adjust to the changes, start noticing the change within. You might not like the changes that are happening, inside and outside; you don't have to like it. It just is. Some changes are easier than others, and some are more challenging. Reach out to a friend, and even a stranger, and make friends. And ask for support, even if it is just a listening ear. Because, most times, that's all we need : to be heard, to know that we are not alone, to feel that we belong.

And when you choose to listen, it isn't just about the words they say; it is the nuances in how they say what they, and the thoughts and emotions involved.