Emotion: fear
Problem: ongoing depression
Situation: This Covid thing is really getting me depressed.

user: Im so depressed

assistant: I am really sorry to hear that.

user: It just wont end

assistant: What is making things so hard?

user: Now Im in quaritine again cant leave the house I dont have anyone to tak to

assistant: I definitely understand that. I also have been having a hard time in quarantine.

user: Plus my work hours have been cut

assistant: Do you have people you can talk to digitally? Friends, family?

user: I have family but they live on the west coast im on the eastcoast

assistant: I get that. It can be really frustrating when you feel alone and like you've got no one to talk to. Especially when 2020 seems to be dumping things on you. What have you been doing to pass the time? Is there anything that you've found that makes you feel better?

user: So my money is now running low and rent is coming due I like to read

assistant: That can be handy!

user: I like to walk on the beach

assistant: Is that something you can do with regularity? Getting out and walking? I know that I've had good luck battling my depression by just finding ways to not be at home. Hiking, going for walks, going for drives...

user: Yes I live on the beach but its so cold right now I cant even do that. I feal so isolated Im going to do that tomorrow

assistant: Good! It's hard to start, but it's a good way to start. How far do you plan on going?

user: Im going to bundle up and go to the beach. Probably walk down to the pier 1 mile

assistant: That will be good. Make sure you can take some time and really appreciate not being in the house. Is there any music or podcats you can listen to while out?

user: Thats good advice, Im feeling a little better I can take my iphone for music

assistant: I am glad. Practicing mindfulness can really help, and help put things in perspective. Often times we build things up to be even worse than they already are. Being able to be grateful for what's around can help, without diminishing the issues that you are facing.

user: Thats good advice, thanks I think you helped me

assistant: Remembering that it's okay to be sad and depressed, as much as it sucks, can be helpful in reframing. It's a rough time for everyone and you definitely are not alone.

user: Thats true, it just seems like I am alone cause well I am lol

assistant: I absolutely get it. I work from home right now so it's just me all day. Sometimes, I literally only talk to my cats. I am a crazy cat lady.

user: Cats are cool

assistant: I had a whole cry and freak out moment when part 2 of quarantine hit recently. I wholeheartedly understand. Do you have any pets?

user: I have a Russian Blue cat ssmart very smart cat

assistant: Smart cats are the best. They know when you need cuddles, which it sounds like you do! Also means you aren't alone. ;) Cat needs ya! As much as they don't want to admit it.

user: He's my buddy for sure. Makes me happy to think of him

assistant: If you are healthy/feel comfortable with going out, you could consider volunteering at an animal shelter. You'd get to interact with some folks, some animals, and add something to the resume. I don't know if you are likely to get hours back at work or what you do, but that could be fun!

user: Thats a good idea I'll look into it. Well we better wrap this hit up?

assistant: I believe it needs to be a minimum of 20 minutes and we are at 17 right now. For the max that is, lol.

user: Oh sorry thought it was 15 minutes. So where are you at?

assistant: West Coast of all things! WA st, so lots of hiking for me. It's been helping so much.

user: I moved from Renton to here in Myrtle Beach SC

assistant: Oh hey! So all of your family is here then. What prompted the move?

user: Got real tired of the weather and people there Everyone friendly here and actually talk to one another

assistant: Ha. I believe that. I was born and raised in Puyallup, so it's all I know. i couldn't ever think of leaving. Welp, thanks for the conversation, I hope I helped. Cuddle the cat, enjoy the beach, and remember this is all temporary!

user: Have you ever left the state

assistant: lol, I have.