For some, being grounded feels like losing a part of their identity Another thing to keep in mind is that for some, travel is a big part of their identity, says licensed professional counselor Mikela Hallmark. We all have ways of expressing ourselves, meeting our personal needs, connecting with others, finding joy and creativity, and for some this happens through travel. So, when you take away something that might have been meeting real needs for fun, expression of self, creativity, connection, etc. that can really cause sadness. And, because of the pandemic, many are finding it difficult to meet their needs in healthy ways because we ve been limited on what we can safely do.