Romy Beltrami had a busy social life before the pandemic struck. The 29-year-old from Naas, Co Kildare — who moved to Melbourne in May 2018 — used to enjoy a nightlife scene that revolved around bars, live music and karaoke sessions.
Now, after experiencing two strict lockdowns, Romy is nervous about social events of more than two people. She finds the idea of a full week back in the office “super overwhelming”. And while she hasn’t been formally diagnosed, she thinks she may have developed a mild case of agoraphobia.
“It almost feels like you’re walking into the lion’s den,” she says. “How do you trust that everyone has done the right thing in terms of hygiene standards?