Does Wearing a Mask Mean I am Afraid?

It’s not that I don’t think COVID 19 is real.

Unlike COVID 19, I spent years concealing my disease, working around it as a person with high-functioning depression.

My relationship with depression has been an evolutionary process. As I learn more about how it works, I can see where I have bought into depression madness and where I have stood firm.

READ MORE: I think I should, I think I shouldn’t

The coronavirus is not giving me the luxury of time.

I am forced with facing how often I wash my hands, and how well. Suddenly I am conscious of the fact that I pull the cap off my Bic pen with my mouth to initial something. So, I no longer do that. And social distancing has become two words I am sharing many times per hour with my staff and our customers.

Now I am asked to set the example for others and wear a mask at my day job.

I am having mixed emotions about it. And I will admit, I have resisted both gloves and masks. But, I am aware of the danger COVID 19 represents, and how it is transmitted. But if I am going to be on the front lines as part of an Essential Business, then maybe it is the right thing to do.

I do get that my actions set an example for others.

And I know that by donning the mask (and possibly gloves) I will be broadcasting a message to my employees and to those who come into our place of business. My message so far is “remain calm and wash your hands.” This may not be enough.

Civil liberties versus the common good.

This could be an entire book. And in the end, I would still be facing the choice of wearing a mask or not. In the end, I have been doing what I think will protect me and others without going to extremes.

Now, extreme measures may be the new normal.

READ MORE: If I live through this…

Wearing the mask, if done correctly, could protect others.  And as an Officer of the Company, it is my responsibility to set the example for others. Plus the CDC is recommending it. Over in Washington DC, their Mayor is requiring it (even though I do not live there)

So, I will wear the mask today.

My concealed depression is written under the alias “Depression is not my boss.” I have certifications in SMART Recovery and am a Global Career Development Facilitator.

Last year, I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder.

If you know someone who might benefit from reading this, please share. And your comments are always appreciated.