Last Tuesday, March 17th, six Bay Area counties were told to shelter-in-place, only going out to get essentials. This was extended to all of California two days later. Then more states started following suit. I'm sure there's plenty of documentation of all this by the time I read this again, or maybe I'll add more later, but I won't go into details.
Not sure what I'll write on here. This is more of a ramble to keep me sane. That'll definitely be another topic: how to stay sane indoors. Actually, this'll be my "notes" for future posts:
- How to stay sane indoors
- Stupid millennials not obeying stay at home orders
- Flattening the curve
And for now, what are the effects of this?
Divorce Rates Rise
This was easy to predict. Everyone goes crazy being cooped up and unable to take your liberties whenever and whatever you want. Being locked up in the same space as your significant other can be contentious and forced interactions can lead to additional arguments that might set each other over the edge. Already seen before our shelter-in-place began in China.
It's important to exercise! Let out aggressions. Get fresh air. At least get your me time! Fortunately, my wife is amazing and gets all this and is really easy going. I'm certain at some point those things have a limit and will need to give each other space, but so far, so good. In all fairness, she only came home from work on Monday, but she's been home since Friday (PTO) with only a slight time away Monday morning before she was sent home before lunch.
Higher Birth Rates
The opposite of the above: couples spending time together will lead to additional procreation. Look for increased birth rates in December onward (for however long this lasts). Maybe even after it ends due to celebration? These last two can even overlap: disproportionate rate of births for unwed couples, divorced couples, who knows what else.
Alcoholism, Liver Disease
Probably not a ton, and often jokes. But maybe this isn't such a joke. Hopefully a small increase, but probably something significant nonetheless.
People Get Out of Shape
It's hard to work out at home, but also without an accountability buddy. Lots of options for home workouts, but that takes self-discipline, too. Maybe if you're getting to the gym, but there's also a lot less motivation these days. Maybe people don't renew gym memberships when it's time to go back, too?
More to come.
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