April 6, 2020, I sit in my living room at my school desk and finish my homework for online classes of the second semester. I’m in isolation with feelings of fear, loneliness and confusion.

Isolation is the state of being in a place or situation that is separate from others. What does isolation do to a person? Isolation can increase the mask of mental health such as depression, social anxiety, and low self-esteem. To stay sane in isolation a person must: create own space, stay clean, get physical, and stick to a routine.

Fear is an unpleasant feeling triggered by the perception of danger, real or imagined. Fear keeps people safe. Fear acts as a internal danger alarm. When a person gets sacred their bodies react physically so they can handle danger, also known as fight-or-flight response. Fear gives a person a natural high and a sense of empowerment. Fear gives a person clarity on what’s really important in life.

I’m doing okay with isolation from the outside world that is infected with COVID-19. I was already a germaphobe before this began. I would like a summer 2020 and to get back to both my jobs.

Facts, not fear. Clean hands. Open hearts.

Dara Donio