The Emotional Impact of the Pandemic

Olivia Guaraldo discusses the emotional and psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains the challenge of adjusting to social isolation and the routine of online teaching and learning. Guaraldo highlights the tragic aspect of the pandemic, with families unable to say goodbye to their loved ones and the loneliness experienced by patients in hospitals. She emphasizes the need for mourning and marking the loss, even in the digital age. Guaraldo reflects on the contrasting experiences of intimacy within families and the isolation faced by those in hospitals. She also shares the powerful symbol of a priest holding a phone above the coffins so relatives could say their final farewells.