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yes I was applying for jobs for almost a year, and I got an offer in February right before coronavirus. I can definitely relate to you. I am glad that Mechanical Turk can provide an intermediate method of earning income. I am also using the platform to earn some extra cash to support family. I don't know what types of jobs that fit me yeah, but it is still rough to get by

Others

Is there any other option for me to consider? I think if you can go for hiring a personal nanny..if you can afford it..What do you say? I am little low on budget and cannot afford a nanny for my kid..or i cannot afford day care centers.. Oh that is a problem..ok you can try for applying child care assistance provided by the government to help you take care of your expenses..can you do it? I think i can search for it and work on it..This is a good idea..

Affirmation and Reassurance

15 mins past. I guess we're done Oh yeah, Kendrick is awesome and makes actual meaningful music. Kanye also is super talented, sadly he seems to have his issues, but don't we all! It was great talking to you :) Nice to find someone with shared music tastes. Hope you have a great rest of ur weekend and good luck with finishing your semester! yea I dont agree with some of kanye's ideology but hes still extremely talented you too

Others

And I see what you're saying. It's really hard breaking free because they always monitored me my entire life. I never had a voice for myself. They basically bullied and forced me to do what they wanted. BTW if you didn't guess I'm their favorite child. Okay, you are old enough to be away from your parents, i am going to suggest you sitting with them down and having a heart to heart discussion with them

Providing Suggestions

Maybe you're right! Just need to get productive and get my mind off of her for good since she was violent I suggest you start trying to have fun with others and getting yourself out there where there will be new opportunities I will definitely try. I know it will be hard because I am upset still but sometimes I guess moving on is the only thing that you can do in this situation The sadness will eventually pass and I am sure there is someone out there that will be a good match for you Awww I hope so. Just like some people say...there are plenty of fish in the sea. Thank you for the advice. It was really helpful.

Reflection of feelings

but it must be both side adjusted ,if not it will result in breakup only. I completely agree with you. One sided relationships do not work. yes it wont work at all What else besides unhappy do you feel about this breakup? Often there are a mix of emotions and looking at all of them is important to see the whole picture. People often report feeling relieved, regretful or other emotions with the feeling of unhappy. there is only thing for my depression is my break up i want to over come but i couldnot .

Question

which has been frustrating in and of itself. I know it's all mental, but I just can't break through. You have to remain positive and keep your head and tell your self everything will be okay I can understand how you are feeling and you are not alone I really appreciate you listening, and understandig it's tremendously helpful

Providing Suggestions

You're a great resource then! I am majoring in Psychology with a minor in Biology. Oh that is awesome! So when do you find out whether or not you are on probation? Likely in the next week. I registered for my classes for next semester but I think I should drop my minor. \ Okay gotcha. Well a couple tips I can offer you: If you do end up on probation, most courses offer a probation workshop you can go through. And if you graduate in June, it should finish in time for you! And I was also going to recommend taking fewer units. As much as it sucks, you can't overwhelm yourself with work. You need to be able to have a healthy and happy life that is separate from school in order to preform your best. Dropping your minor may be what is best for not only your grades, but your mental health

Providing Suggestions

I'm just struggling a lot to find the motivation to do anything at all, even the most basic of things Sometimes I get very intense feelings of sadness and just want to drop everything I'm doing, like I can't do anything more i think a lot of people are feeling that way these past few months. do you think it is covid related? not sickness, more depression Yes that's very true, depression is probably hitting people the worst right now

Affirmation and Reassurance

I'm so tense all the time since my son is ill. Can you tell me more about what you're feeling? I wonder if he will ever get better. I'm so scared for his future with perhaps others having to care for him or even if he will eat. It seems like you are concerned about your son's future and wellbeing. Is this correct? Yes, absolutely correct.

Question

Yes, I can't control my impulses. I am picturing what you look like now and imagining what we would do together. I think I have a big problem. I am forty five, fat and married :). I do recommend talking to someone though. I am forty one, fat and married. I actually prefer heavier ladies, but I get your point. :) I am glad you were able to confide a little in me and hope it is the first step on the road to a happier marriage. I do recommend not giving into your urges and remembering how much you love your wife. I wish you all the best for the future and have a lovely Christmas! Thanks, you too.

Information

Yes. What are some ways you might express this to your best friend when seeking valued feedback? I guess I could say that being fired has made me feel useless and very depressed. That's a good place to start and hearing feedback can sometimes be hard to hear but I think you can do it !! Thank you, I think that this might help me.

Others

yeah hopefully that will help i need to decide soon You sound like you have a good head on your shoulders and want to be able to get a good job when you graduate. I think it is wise to seek advice now. thank you i appreciate that

Providing Suggestions

Hi Hello, can you help me? Hello. I hope so What kind of problem are you having? I am really struggling with my studies at the moment, I am so anxious that I keep putting off my essays and worrying all the time.

Restatement or Paraphrasing

BLM, election Covid... Yes, and it doesn't seem to have an end in sight. But at some point it will be over. If you don't feel more like yourself say a month from now I have to seeing a doctor because some depression requires it but that said some depression is normal and usually precedes change. I was told that it sort of erases our expectations and allows us to accept the new thing in a better way. I would say when i take a walk at the park it does help Also working out So exercise and sunshine brings my mood up a bit

Providing Suggestions

Well. I can of feel depressed because I haven't been able to return the happiness that my parents gave to me. One of my dreams is to give them everything they gave me as a child but I can reach there So from what I understand you are feeling upset because you feel like you haven't given back what your parents were able to provide you> Right now is hard for me to keep a job and the economy its crazy Exactly

Reflection of feelings

No I didn't know. That sounds helpful. They can be really very helpful. I have reached out to them myself previously Ok, thank you. I will see if I can find some local to me. The job market is very uncertain right now but please know that you are not alone! Yes it's very uncertain, and very scary to experience.

Question

yeah! i think so, and i don't have to tell this to anyone Exactly! You don't have to do anything that you're not comfortable with. yes, I need to be strong on my emotions Feeling strong is very empowering but it's okay to feel vulnerable sometimes too. There are no wrong answers here. Do you feel good about the strategies you can use or would you like to continue exploring your options? I feel good about the strategies i want to use

Affirmation and Reassurance

so they are also suffering Maybe next year will be a better year which makes me feel so depressed Thank you for talking and I hope you feel okay yeah i think so

Others

I babysit sometimes I would let them know that i notice it happening and it is starting to concern you and if it is the problem you would gladly do some things for them to earn it rather them just giving it to you to help out. It's not as easy as you say it I feel I'm no longer needed like an outcast

Affirmation and Reassurance

yeah it's stupid. Once I am done with these two courses, I can finally stop sleeping so late. Because regardless of the courses, I have been sleeping at around the same time, which is late almost every night, since the pandemic started. I think you're saying you will have go put your nose to the grind so it will be a good time for me to take a breather and reset my bad bad habits and circadian rhythm after these two courses. and get back to some normalcy in my life routines. it will literally be a fresh start, next january

Providing Suggestions

Yes, that is a good point. I need to manage my nervousness too because it causes me to make silly mistakes. Depending on how far your exams are, you can create a plan. Practice what you don't know daily, until you do know it. That's really good advice. Just trying to make life easier for others. Sometimes we don't see our solutions because of our anxiety. Yes and it's definitely causing me to not think clearly.

Providing Suggestions

Yes. Recently, I broke up with my fiance. And no matter how much I tell myself that life continues, I still feel like there is a void inside of me ever since it happened. So your relationship ended and you feel that you are struggling to get over it, is that correct? Yes, that's exactly right. I am very sorry. I have been through something like this myself in the past so I do understand. How long did it take you to get over it?

Self-disclosure

no! all i think of is her, loved her wish she never did that Do you think you guys could reconcile your relationship? Is there any hope? Is she willing to work with you and work through her mistakes? i wished we could, i just cannot get it of my mind It takes time. Sometimes, the best relationships occur when people work through the most difficult occurrences in their relationship. Have you tried talking to her? I would recommend talking to her when your emotions have settled. guessed you right, i just don't know if i can trust her, I don't think i can heal from the betrayer

Providing Suggestions

I am crying everyday and need to know what can I do on daily basis to keep me busy from doing other things that can harm me.... I would look to talk to a therapist about these matters. Platforms like this can help with some issues but if you are not reacting to the medication and these thoughts are still occurring then that is the path i would take. Therapist wants me to use this. My blood work will be done this week. Im not telling you to quit on your therapist but if their techniques are not working for you, or you do not think they are a good fit. You should not feel guilty looking for one that is better suited to your needs. Self harm is a very serious issue that strangers really cannot help you with. I understand.

Information

How do I handle that/ We are all in this together. With proper emotional support, each of us can overcome these turbulent times. Any suggestions on things I can do? I feel so overwhelmed It may seem pretty bad now with the cold weather setting in at many parts of the world. But there is a vaccine coming soon. I really do hope so, it's a glimmer of hope

Providing Suggestions

Any other advices? What else can you advise me on? Should I look elsewhere for jobs? I will have to try that. Maybe it can help me ease my mind. Since a lot of this stress is being caused by your childhood trauma, it seems like there is something that connects that job to your trauma and if it cant be disconnected, it seems like you should find another job.

Affirmation and Reassurance

k i will do it take a man home with you. in this can i overcome the stress I guarntee your depression will be gone and the anxiety will take some time. thank you for the suggestion

Affirmation and Reassurance

I am good. How are you? I doing well. How may I help you? I had a fight with my best friend. I understand that you have a dispute with your friend. Is that correct? Yes, She asked for a help and that day I couldn't make it.

Question

yea . i need to get A in acdemics but nobody helping me in online classes I am a student too, and I can feel that its difficult to study online. i have to pay all my student loan if i got good score wow , you are also facing ..yea its hard these days well, online study have its pros too , use Socratic app and get all your exams done lol

Information

Thinking about it, they really did help a lot. So I should really distance myself for a while right? I think if making distance helps you feel better, you deserve and have a right to that space Yes, thank you. I really need to that. You're welcome It sounds like you are making healthy and careful emotional decisions

Question

I met Doug at work when I used to smoke outside the building. He's handsome, built and has a killer smile. We started talking and one night we hooked up. It sounds like you're physically attracted to Doug and had a one-time encounter with him. Is that right? can you tell me more about how you're feeling now? Well, actually this has been going on for 7 months. I hooked up with him after a month of talking. I'm ready to end this situation because I want the more emotional stuff I know Doug can't give. How do I get out?

Affirmation and Reassurance

Hello, I'm feeling a lot of anxiety. I am sorry to hear that. Do you know what may be causing ytour anxiety? I found out I'm losing my job on January 1. You lost your job? thats a tough situation. Is it due to covid? No, not due to covid. It's a gig job, much like mturk, but the company is dropping people from my state on that date.

Affirmation and Reassurance

I just would like to get some answers if I am the one to blame. I feel guilty sometimes that I should have done something differently. I can see that being a challenge feeling guilty about whether you did something to affect the relationship. But, you sound like you are really trying to make things work and maintain the friendship. I'm really trying but maybe again just having a hard conversation may help to improve things. I had one of those hard conversations in college with a roommate who later revealed that she was in counseling and overwhelmed and struggling. She apologized for the strain in the relationship. I was so glad we talked about things because we went on to be better friends and not hold resentment toward one another. I see what you mean. That looks like it helps to talk through things.

Question

We were together for almost 2 years If you don't mind me asking. how old are you I am 24 years old. Ok so you were together with this person for ten percent of your life almost. that is a significant relationship It surely is. I definetely feel somewhat worthless now.

Reflection of feelings

I have, but the location that I am in is scarce with work. Which is quite surprising. Would you contemplate moving? I hear that there are a lot of opportunities in your field on the East Coast. I would for sure, but that also makes me a bit nervous as I would not know anyone there. Thinking about all the possibilities raises my anxieties about the situation at hand and I am not sure as to what I should do I understand - I find it very difficult to meet new people too. Maybe you could join some online groups in new area before actually moving there? That actually does not sound like a bad idea at all.

Self-disclosure

Calling the customer service line is futile. The computer just plays a recording that the agents are on other calls and then it disconnects the call. I hear you there - I spent a long time on hold for an official matter the other day. I guess that everyone is really desperate for help and advice right now. I have been very fortunate. People in my church have been bringing me food. I plan on trying to go to the food bank Monday, if they are open. I hope that they can help you. My partner and I have used one before and they were very helpful. I felt a bit ashamed but there was no judgement at all. I actually got so tired of redialing the Department of Labor and Training that I sent an email to the Lieutenant Governor of the state asking for his assistance in getting the matter resolved.

Affirmation and Reassurance

yeah what a peach she was, at least she didnt murder me like my brother did to my mom There's a lot of dark stuff happening in and around your life. Do you have any things that you like to do on your own that calm you down? drinking is the only thing that takes the pain away I have definitely been there. everytime I say it cant get any worse I get a new illness

Self-disclosure

Yes. My best friend didn't invite me to his party. I think its because I always wear mask and try to obey the CDC guidelines. I understand how you are feeling i would feel the same way They should not be having christmas parties right now with the Covid going around bad I would not feel bad or terrible about it because you are doing the right thing Yea it just hurts being left out. He is my best friend and I am not sure what to do. I feel like I need to talk to him abou tit.

Providing Suggestions

hello Hi, how are you? i feel anxious That sounds rough, do you know what triggers your anxiety? I have a large test coming up for school

Restatement or Paraphrasing

yes.sure i am ready to get suggetions from you Try practicing meditation and yoga, and avoid mobile phones atleast an hour before you sleep. Chamomile tea also helped me relaxed before. ok.its very good advice .i will follow these steps surely That's wonderful that you're very open, I'm sure you will be well in no time. If you still have a hard time sleeping, feel free to contact us again. We'll be happy to help. ya.sure.thanks you very much for the help

Others

I feel like those are useless to be honest I understand. Would you happen to be in college? Yes, I am at my last year of college right now. Have you tried to reach out to any of the free student services such as councillors. No, althought I prefer those than help lines.

Restatement or Paraphrasing

Talked to few friends about it, but their advices does not help Have you considered seeing someone professional? You might be able to get that free too given your circumstances i have not seen any professional, do you think that will help? Yes I think it should. They might be able to give you advice about your finances too. Okay great. but have you ever lost a job or know a friend that lost one

Self-disclosure

I am trying. don't think too much, make yourself busy with other things My girl of 5 years decided that "Brad from Accounting" is her guy. :( I need to stop the racing thoughts.... She just told me that she has had feelings for Brad for a long time....

Question

Do you think I should call my closest friend then? I think that is a good start. If they are your closet friend you should be able to talk about this too them. Yeah, I feel really comfortable talking to her. I can be open about my concerns regarding other friends too. This sounds like a good friend. I hope this is just a miscommunication. Hopefully. I might have been overreacting after all.

Restatement or Paraphrasing

Should I call her directly? What should I say? I would give her a little time. Maybe two or three days? She might need some time to clear her head That's a good idea. What should I say? Should I apologize? Perhaps you could send flowers and a note asking her if she'd like to talk? That's a good idea. I will try that. Thank you.

Others

They have given me a total of 3 weeks and I wasn't able to accomplish it .So they had to go with someone else. I understand that can be flustering. Have you tried contacting your school for help? So it pretty much has me down, because my other co-workers were looking for me to step up and i feel that I've let them down. It is hard to let your coworkers down but you could be honest with them and tell them what happened . Yes I've tried asking the administration office and they said since its been over 10 yrs that those files are stored in another building. They went to the building and wasn't able to find it. So at this point my hands are tied and I'm screwed.

Providing Suggestions

It is hard emotionally - as well as financially. I tried calling the unemployment office to find out what help they may have but no one answered me. 3 Your not getting the unemployment office to respond seems to be a common problem. They weren't geared up for this. Fortunately, the online portal has been helpful for many. What are your skills and strong points? I will have to look at that. I've not been in the job market for 25 years. I thought they may be able to provide some assistance in just where do I begin. 4 I'm a teacher at a private school. 4

Restatement or Paraphrasing

That sounds like a good idea. Is it hard to do? Not at all, we use a program called Skype, that's free. You can use it on your phone or PC My friends want to go out all the time. How can we connect during a Skype? Pick a time you'll both be available, and you'll both need the program. It's quite easy to use and there will be youtube videos that'll help you set it up, should you need it Do you do any activities together over Skype?

Self-disclosure

That's cool. I should check it out. I feel like a book club would help. Do you like books? I do love books. They are a great way to get connected with yourself and enhance your creative side! I bet you could find a local book club on one of those apps. For sure. Books are great. You have been very helpful. What's you first name so I can thank you properly? Rachel, and no need to thank me! Being able to help is the greatest reward! Thank you Rachel. Best of luck to you. I'm going to end it now.

Others

yep were you covered by workman's comp yeah. I went to court due to it but they sided with the employer so I lost my job I am in Georgia heading to Virginia. Heavy virus there which?

Question

ill check it out Yes I understand, I live in Iowa- a bigger town but the struggles are still very real thanks ah word i hear ya i was in des moises once zombie burher lol burger

Affirmation and Reassurance

I've asked some friends, I think a friend will help me out when he's not busy do not let this bring you down i know you will find a job soon it will just take time and you have to just be patient Yes I know have you tried to go to place and talk to a hiring boss about a job? It's hard with this virus to go anywhere pretty much

Reflection of feelings

That sounds great! I've been wanting a workout partner, I think a friend of mines wants one too... We are accountable to each other. We both need to walk for our mental health, we have mental health issues How'd you find one? Hey that would be great if you two could be accountable to each other And yeah, we do need to talk, I just feel conflicted because I ask if it would help anything or should I just move out and move on?

Self-disclosure

I have started to paint which I have always enjoyed doing but again when I see others close me work and settled it makes me feel sad that I don't have a job I think painting more would be very helpful! I should try doing that, thanks No problem! If you have any other issues just chat in! No issues other than this at the moment. Have you found a new job?

Self-disclosure

Well my mama suggested i just forget my ex and not be depressed. My grandpa suggested once i get divorced i should just move on. My brother asked if i wanted him to beat his ass XD lol So not much help honestly Do you want the relationship to be over or you are truly done and want to move on? I realize i am glad its over. I realize i did not love him like i thought i did. I'm sad that my babies had to suffer for me to realize this. Although it's tough for the children, it's positive to hear that maybe it was for the best. The family seemed to echo your same feelings so it could be for the best. I certainly hope so. I wonder sometimes. I hope i haven't ruined my kids lives by leaving their father.

Providing Suggestions

I think the main reason ive lost my friends is because I cant go out with them or hangout anymore because I have a baby. Im not fun anymore. I had my child young so I feel like I lost out on my youth It sounds like its been really tough for you and wish you had more support from your friends and even your child's father. Yes, thats right. But Im having trouble accepting the fact that I have to do this alone. I myself am single mum so I understand how you feel. You will find also that there are many others dealing with this issue so you are not alone Can I ask, as a single mother yourself, what was something that got you through those hard times? And was it hard financially?

Information

my recent ex gf gave her daughters drugs while on a video chat with me. While being very dishonest in our relationship, i am devestated about the truth of all of it now that its over. I really loved her. and her kids. we had some great times. I turned her in for giving her kids drugs as thats not okay. today im super sad. i dont have any motivation. I dont want to really be around, and im trapped in my thoughts with everything. i had to move to get away from her stalking me. now im in a new place trying to find a job and get set up here. Its difficult to start over. its a pretty intense situation i admit. You are girlfriend is giving drugs to hew own kids. Did I get it right? That is what she did. Among many other things.

Affirmation and Reassurance

I also went through a lot of different combinations before ending on on Prozac. I think that different things work for different people. I do not find it very easy to talk to people. Have you explored other theraputic avenues to synchronize with the medication? No, I am rather way of 'natural' or homeopathic medicine. Are there any kinds that you could recommend? You're doing VERY well talking to me! Had you not said anything, I would have assumed that to be the best choice! But if you're an introvert, then my first suggestion is to journal. I do do a lot of that but I would feel too shy to show anyone my journal. Your help has been invaluable though and I do feel more receptive to other forms of treatment now.

Question

Only once and she was just telling me that I was a horrible person. This all started over her stopping her meds and then I asked her to clean her room. That sounds very toxic. Is it possible to persuade her to seek medical help? I realise she might be reluctant to We have tried to get her into therapy again. But, COVID put a block on that. I suggested that she go back to the ward and maybe be placed into a group home.

Others

Good to know. When do you think things will go back to normal? I am thinking things will slowly begin to get better toward the beginning of spring and by the end of the next year things should be close to normal. Has anything else been bothering you? Just the pandemic, work and financial situation. I was thinking about getting a dog, is that a good or bad idea during this pandemic?

Affirmation and Reassurance

I contact him because we have children together but Im thinkin to just disconnect with him fully before he tries to lure me in and become abusive agian I am so sorry to hear that this has been going on. How recently did the divorce take place? two months ago So you have children together and want to disconnect but that is a complicating factor?

Affirmation and Reassurance

Yes that's totally accurate. Yes they are. They are good people. They just think living for the moment is the bigger picture. I hope your friends can see how important they are to you and thats a huge reason why you're not seeing them. I think they do. They just think that this is a hoax.

Self-disclosure

Well i appreciate your time and help He may have found what he thought was better but then again you will be the better. He may come back but the seed has been planted I will not let him come back. I deserve better You can find better because he will want you for you I agree! It will just take me some time

Reflection of feelings

I would love some words of encouragement IT seem you need some encouragement to accomplish your goal. Hope I understood it correctly. yes That's great! We all need motivation and encouragement to do something. Have you been in a situation like mine before?

Self-disclosure

I have talked to charities, gotten together with my church pastor... I am glad that you have someone outside the family that you can talk to and I hope that they are sympathetic! True, there is no shame but it is emotionally hard to deal with. Have you considered any sort of counselling to help you with your situation? They are...and thank you for your concern as well.

Others

that is very true what i need right now is to distract my mind and think about something else What kind of hobbies do you have? Or are you involved in sports or any type of other activities that you enjoy? i mostly play soccer That could be a great distraction. You could start practicing soccer again. You definitely have more time for it now.

Question

youre right when there is no communication then that is when the trouble starts and the marriage starts failing We have. We cant talk about whats for dinner without an argument these days. find the right time to talk to your partner and just explain to your feelings towards what is going on and let your partner know you do not like what is going on You're right. Thanks for the advice.

Providing Suggestions

My wife had no right to leave California without me. I made a mistake making California my home. I'm sure it isn't, how long had you been together? California is beautiful I know, but it can also be pretty quick paced. We were together 10 years. I am just disgusted that it had to happen at this point. Christmas week, of all weeks.

Others

I believe i am going to fail all my finals for college College finals are a stressful time for sure, I'm sure you're doing your best to prepare. Yes i have been studying for hours everyday. sometimes it is hard to focus. Sometimes it's best to take a short break to reset when you feel like your gears are grinding. that is true, but i feel guilty when i take breaks

Self-disclosure

They just be fleas. Fleas gonna flea. Galaxies gonna spiral. I worry too that the U.S. government has no idea what it's doing And the people at large are all losing their mental health

Reflection of feelings

should i start in one room or one group of things and collect them from all the rooms? What is one little area that maybe seems easier to start with? Yeah, that's a great idea! well i seem to start and them i end up jumoing to another thing! jumping

Affirmation and Reassurance

I tried to stay hopeful. how about you? why did you pick to be a supporter? You are very nice by the way. Are you interested in taking any classes to improve your skillset? There are many free courses available online. Yes, I used coursea and also learning French.

Others

I agree with you there. It would be nice if they could be in school, but I understand that they shouldn't be. I'd like more help and understanding from my husband, but he seems to be incapable of that. Unless I badger him for it. It's kind of a tired saying, but one strategy that has helped me is the One day at a time strategy. I'm sure you've heard of it. Basically, it means just do for today, don't worry about yesterday, don't stress over tomorrow, just treat this day as it's own task. I've definitely heard that before, but you are completely right. I need to stop worrying about yesterday and tomorrow and focus on today, but I'm just not very good at that.

Providing Suggestions

And both our parents died last year - I can't lose him too. That's so inappropriate, my husband's brother is the same way with his kids. They are giving such inappropraite gifts for their age. Oh wow, i'm so sorry about your parents. Losing parents is so hard. Definitely need to make sure you don't lose your brother as well. She's the only granddaughter - she'll get the ring eventually, if she wants it (probably won't). My SIL apparently thinks that was the only valuable thing about my mom - she didn't want any of the books, or art, or photos... Are you too busy to do this right now...?

Others

I also think my kid's homework and remote learning has stressed me. Do you have friends that could go with you to the dog park? Do you think you'd feel comfortable physically being around other people? I am ok with it. My parks are pretty empty now. I think that sounds like a wonderful idea. im sure seeing someone in person will help even if it's for a few minutes. Once you figure out how to hang out with someone that makes you both comfortable, the next times will be that much easier. That sounds good. Thanks for your help.

Affirmation and Reassurance

Not really, I never made friends too easily. Not seeing anyone in person because of the pandemic except a few family members. Yes the pandemic is making everyone feel a bit raw I think. Are you actually seeing your family in person regularly? I see them about two times a month, I am their ride as they have no car. Mostly it is my sibling, you can never please me, I know he is the one with the issue but just wish he would listen better and not make harsh comments. Would you consider calling a family conference and telling them how you feel? Meant please him.

Others

I am really embarased that I am now getting food from food banks I see .. so you feel that you are not able to support yourself or your family and this makes you ashamed? yes, and the looks that people give me now hurt I know how you feel, I have been forced to use food banks during the pandemic too. You should not feel ashamed! thank you, but it seems like a slow slippery slope if I am not careful

Question

His family member was a friend of mine. I think he does but it is more convenient to be with his ex. Has the COVID interfered with you There is another way to look at this Yes it has. We are in different countries and his ex is in the same country as him.

Affirmation and Reassurance

they're still friends with me. if it gets bad enough i can sue her for slander that's an option but I hope it doesn't go that far again. Have you tried maybe a mediation with the ex friend and your current friend? no. i don't want anything to do with her. if i find out my friends take her side they will be my ex friend too I can understand that. You don't want two people disrespecting you. absolutely not. i have a strong constitution about myself and don't allow to be disrespected by anyone

Question

Yeah exactly. I want to feel like I am an important member of the team and right now I’m not feeling that and it makes me feel like I don’t have a future with this career anymore. But now is not the time for a career change. No I guess that it isn't. Have you tried talking to your employer about this? Or even your co workers? I think that’s the part that gets me anxious. I don’t really know how to communicate this to my superiors. There isn’t a lot of open communication now that we all work from home. Is there someone intermediate that you can talk to ? Or perhaps could you contact a union? There is help out there. Maybe going to HR would be the smart move? They might have some resources on how to navigate relationships now that we aren’t in the office, right?

Affirmation and Reassurance

Yes, they will. Thank you. This is good. Take care and God bless. TY You are welcome and best of wishes. Take care, bless yall You, too.

Others

You are right. But I’m afraid it is solely based on race. She is such a great person. I wish they could look past her race. I completely understand that and if you really like her and they see how happy she makes you maybe they will come around. I hope so. But they are old school. I just lost my cool. I would be upset too so, it's understandable. Just reassure them you love them and your happy and hopefully one day they will be happy with your decesion. If not then it is your decesion who you date and I think they know that too. Have you dated interracial?

Self-disclosure

It was shown in my class in like 9th grade things are weird for everyone right now emotions are running high, covid is running rampant, it's a mess and understandable that we are all stressed Yeah you are right. I think I am just overthinking a lot. I will look into that TED talk. Thank you so much for the advice! I appreciate the conversation

Providing Suggestions

Yes, it's not ideal, but it is nice to have support even if it is over the phone, Zoom, etc. Most definitely. I'm far away from my family too so Zoom and phone calls have been great despite the long distance. Have you visited your family since Covid began? I was able to visit them once over the Summer, which was great! That's awesome! I'm planning on going to visit mine next Summer. Are you able to see them before years end? If not, maybe early next year? Hopefully Covid will be just a memory. I probably won't be able to visit them this year. But, hopefully things will calm down and I can visit them early next year some time!

Question

I am doing good. Can I talk to you about something? Of course you can, tell me about it :) I am worried that I won't be able to complete my degree. Why so? I can't get motivated, it doesn't seem worth it.

Self-disclosure

I don’t think I’ve ever tried banana chips! I’ll have to see if my grocery store has got them. Maybe I can get some delivered by the time I’m ready to study you can find it in any grocery store easily known as Plantain chips hope you are feeling much better now Thanks so much! I’ve added them and some of my favorite trail mix to my cart. Should be delivered in 1 hour! I am feeling better. Thanks so much for the advice :)

Affirmation and Reassurance

He texted me yesterday! Can you believe that? We've been together a year and he broke up with me by texting me!!! He couldn't even do it face to face! That seems very cowardly to break up with you over text after being together for a year. Yes, I thought so too! He knew I'd be upset and he didn't want to deal with me I guess. He knew I wanted to get married some day from the very start. He knew it didn't have to be soon. I'm still in college. I just want to know that he wants marriage some day but he decided that marriage is an institution he doesn't believe in. That is a shame. I can understand his perspective if marriage is not something he wanted but it seems hurtful to string you along in a relationship if your life goals were very different. Was your differing opinions on marriage the only reason he gave? Yes, It was completely unexpected because things with us were going great. I was completely blindsided. We hadn't even talked about marriage lately. He just knew that it was something that I wanted in the future.

Question