Emotion: depression
Problem: ongoing depression
Situation: the pandemic

user: Hi there

assistant: hello! how are you?

user: I am good, thanks. I hope you're well also.

assistant: Is there anything bothering you or upsetting you right now?

user: Sure, one of the biggest concerns I have right now is the pandemic Especially with the rising second wave in my city.

assistant: What city are you in?

user: I live in Canada on the east coast.

assistant: That must be difficult living in such a big city with the pandemic going on. What are you must scared of or stressed about?

user: yes of course. just the sense of fear, anxiety, and paranoia. And helplessness and anguish that people are complacent and selfish and stupid. Keep reading up on exposure sites here like restaurants and gyms, and the culprits are those between 18-35 years old.

assistant: I've had similar feelings also. People can be very selfish right now. That's normal to feel that way! How have you been coping with anxiety?

user: yeah. Like I am scared of being sick at anytime. It could h appen anytime.

assistant: It sounds like you're scared of the virus is that right?

user: well, I talk with my friend daily on the phone. I also stay sane by staying at home. I work out when I have time, but not so much as before. yeah quite so. It's an invisible enemy, like people cannot believe it's taking effect or they will get it.

assistant: It sounds like you're doing a great job adjusting though! Good for you. Talking with people will help a lot.

user: I can only stay safe for so long but it takes cooperation from my citizens and also the leaders here to be responsible in lockdowns etc. thank you for your kind words I hope you are getting by well also. I try and am kind of used to it by now. But the fear is coming back since two to three weeks ago with renewed cases. yeah and I believe in social support and therapy. It's good to talk out.

assistant: It's hard when we live in a divided world. Some people want this...and some people want that. I would suggest just letting go of the things not in your control, even though that is hard.

user: yeah I will try and I know what you mean

assistant: Do you go to therapy?

user: It does feel like I am in an apocalyptic world and self isolated in my safety bunker. And a few months ago, I felt more lonely and claustrophobic. I feel better now. I guess the best and safest place now is my home.

assistant: You do what's best for you, that is what is important. Don't worry about others.

user: No, I believe in it and I talk openly with my close friends about issues but have only gone for medical therapy a few times. I will try to have my usual health checkup once the pandemic is more in control, and so then I might consider getting a referral yeah that's true. I will keep that in mind

assistant: Have you heard of teletherapy? I do that and you don't have to worry about leaving your house!

user: not that I have an active and huge problem, but that I don't think it's so bad, as mental illness is so stigmatized. You can go for therapy and talk things over even if you don't have that big of a problem. no I have not done any medical appointments since earlier this year.

assistant: Exactly! I totally agree. I love just talking to my therapist. It's so nice just to have someone listen and give feedback that isn't a friend.

user: I will once I get some more done for my work at home. I see. That's great that you do that. Excellent

assistant: Therapy is shown to really help so I strongly suggest doing that if you have the time and money. It really will help.

user: Yeah I will definitely keep it on my list and won't rule it out I do need to go to my family doctor in person though as I need an annual checkup at least like even the dentist I haven't gone since last year.

assistant: Yes that is important. I'm sure it is safe there!

user: due to the pandemic

assistant: Hopefully this conversation helped with some of your anxiety and stress!

user: Hopefully. And then any mental support can be done via teleheal th like you said.

assistant: Sounds like a great plan!

user: yes it sure does, thanks for listening and I see that we are pretty much on the same page. It sounds like you are quite coping nicely and optimistic also. So these are great traits. and remain hopeful in such dark and unpredictable times

assistant: Thank you! I hope you have a nice night.