Social connections in a pandemic where the world is in lockdown can be difficult. Thankfully, most of us had the technological access in order to keep in touch with families and friends.

Connections can be made through many forms, especially in today’s world. However, Covid-19 made that option a little harder. People began relying on phones and emails to keep in touch with people instead of actual face to face connections. They can be formed over simple ideologies that one might share, it could be family, or it could start with a compliment. Connections can form out of anywhere quite honestly.

For me specifically, Covid was not a good time for social connections. My parents were going through their divorce and it was being pushed off because of the pandemic. This led to a lot of tension in the house because my dad wouldn’t let me see my mom and vice versa. Being trapped in a house with such harsh family problems led to problems with our relationships. During the pandemic my relationship with my mom and dad did become extremely strained.

I was around uncomfortable tension every minute of the day and my depression was also at an all time high. I would sleep in until 3-4 pm and then come downstairs and eat dinner with my dad. I tried avoiding all family options during that time, but it was more difficult since we were locked in together.

However, there were other relationships that were maintained and even strengthened. My brothers and I got closer during this time and we were texting and calling each other. It usually consisted of them checking in on me, but we were able to still joke around and have a good time on the phone. We live all over the world, so it wasn’t like they could get to the house. It was a nice touch that really helped me through the pandemic and now our relationship is even better.

This is a picture of us from Christmas in 2020. After the pandemic, we all try to get flights to meet up with each other for a weekend, which was never an importance to us before covid.

Another connection that was strengthened during the pandemic was with my grandparents. This connection was strengthened by protectiveness and fear, but strengthened nonetheless. I would call and check on them everyday as they both had health problems that made them more susceptible to the disease then just their old age. I was fearful that I would lose them so I would try and call them once a week or text my nana as much as I could.

They were able to come to my graduation that was held outside and everyone that was in the car with them took the necessary precautions to make sure they were safe. We quarantined to ensure that we weren’t putting them at risk, but they were adamant about seeing me walk the stage and give my speech. It meant the world to me.

We are now closer than before and although I wish it was strengthened on different terms, I am forever grateful for them. Our relationship was never rocky or anything like that but I think my appreciation for them grew in the time of potential loss. It is a hard thing to admit but they made it through. My nana would take scraps of fabric and make masks for everyone in the house, but she would mail some to me every once and awhile too!

Connections were hard to make during Covid and I don’t think I made any new ones, but either past relationships were either strengthed or weakened. Some of those relationships have changed since the pandemic has ended and some haven’t.