No, seriously, how are you really?
Lockdown 2.0 feels different for many people from Lockdown 1.0, and not just because schools are still open. The cold, dark weather doesn’t help, and neither does the current confusion and concerns about whether or not we can travel and/or get together with family and friends over the festive period. After more than 8 months of restrictions, most of us are getting completely worn down. Working from home for many is a lonely place, with none of the benefits of being in the workplace, surrounded by colleagues. For those who don’t have outside space, and for those in the early stages of their career, it’s been even harder.
Increasing numbers of people report experiencing a constant state of underlying emotional distress, with worries over employment and money, uncertainty over the future, and the isolation arising from multiple lockdowns exacerbating fears of contracting the virus or infecting loved ones. The rise in depression and anxiety is even worse than expected, especially among young adults.
It has been reported that the Chancellor will announce a £500 million package on Wednesday (Nov 24th) to support mental health services after demand for support soared during the coronavirus crisis.
In the meantime, here are some resources where you can find help and advice if you are struggling.
- The NHS Volunteers Service can also provide a telephone ‘check in and chat’ for if you have mental health issues and are feeling isolated. Call 0808 196 3646 (8am to 8pm)
- NHS Talking Therapies is another website you might want to check out for free help and advice
- If you are in Scotlad, head to https://www.samh.org.uk/
- MIND can also provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem
- Here’s a really useful A-Z of mental health charities