More than a month ago, I read from the newspaper that the number of callers asking for counselling from the National Mental Crisis Center hotline tripled or quadrupled. It is understandable that more people would be anxious or depressed as they were on quarantine, and could not go to work, and have to avoid contact with friends and family and social activities.

For a while, I thought I was not affected as I have a little income and my niece and family live nearby. But as the months dragged by and we’re still on quarantine although more relaxed now, and the COVID cases keep on increasing daily, I am starting to feel a certain anxiety and loneliness that manifests itself with dreams of being with my loved ones, especially with my sisters.

Although compared with others, I am still in a better situation. I traced the reasons for my heavy…