Coping during the Coronavirus outbreak

[Sophie_M]

We recognise that many of us here in the community are feeling scared, worried and overwhelmed about Coronavirus (COVID19). 

As a result, we created this thread to allow people to come together here during those difficult times and encouraged those wanting to share or seek support to do so here in this space. 
 
It was important with this thread that we maintained perspective and supported each other as best as we could, medical, scientific and public health experts around the world have and still are working hard to contain the virus and treat those affected. 
 
The Beyond Blue Support Service is available via phone 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or via beyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat. 
 
There are some other helpful discussions taking place here within our forum community that you may find helpful to read or participate in: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/hi-there-i-only-just-joined-and... 

This thread is now closed for further posting. Users are still able to read through and find support through already existing posts.  

[lofththesloth]

Hi everyone first time poster. I have really enjoyed reading everyone’s comments it really brings us together and shows we’re not alone.
Last year in October my partner had a kidney transplant in Sydney. We had to wait a while because Sydney had cases earlier last year. Since then, we live in Newcastle, so haven’t been overly exposed like Sydney & Melb. We’ve been lucky. But my partner still suffers intense anxiety because he is on immune suppressant medication. He is absolutely terrified of this virus and it’s just started getting a lot closer with Newcastle in proper lockdown for the first time. He suffers back ache, muscle ache, headache stomach knots, poor sleep, nausea/constipation, irritability. We’ve been doing yoga/stretching, walking, eating well but nothing had relieved any of his symptoms. Ive had to stop working during the lockdown because of his fear, I’m lucky we can afford to otherwise I don’t know how we’d cope. Looking for advice if anyone has other tools we can try. He does get temporary relief when he talks to his nephrologist but that’s once a month. He and I have both been vaccinated as I work in health care - a big reason I’ve had to pause working. His parents and brother live in the same house and are not yet vaccinated but they don’t understand how upsetting it is for my partner to be so scared of it which adds to his fear. Any advice would be very much appreciated or useful tips tricks. Thank you.

[Guest_1584]

Sorry to those in nsw , better strap yourself in l think.

An maybe for us in Vic too , must admit l was expect numbers to be much lower by now.

rx

[al_ch]

Hi all, first time poster

I understand that feeling of being anxious. I am a 33 yrs old reasonably healthy (as in i haven't seen a doctor in probably over a year) and by virtue of one of my jobs, i've had both AZ jabs from the early rollout days. I wasn't anxious about as i saw this as an opportunity to do my bit. All that scare mongering did very little as i like to investigate what is actually going on and quickly reassured myself. Sometimes turn off all that Covid news, watch a doco, read a book, or go online and read the joys that the vaccines are bringing around the world. You will find yourself calling ur gp for ur AZ in no time and i'm sure you will be glad u did.

Good luck! it's not easy, i'm going through a bit of a mental challenge tonight for the first time since the pandemic started and i'm in Melbourne, so i think i've done well

[blondguy]

Hi al_ch

Welcome and thankyou for being a part of the Beyond Blue family

what a wonderful & proactive post 😊✔✔ Im due for my 2nd Astra Zeneca dose in the next few days...You are spot on about the scare mongering from some of the media

you speak from the heart al_ch

Nice1

Paul

[CMF]

Thank you al_ch & Paul,

I'm booked in for this Saturday, hopefully won't feel too anxious and back out again.

I agree, the media scaremongering is not helping.

Thanks for your positive words.

Cmf x

[Needleina]

Thank you all for your positive posts and to those that are struggling like me. It helps knowing others are like me. I have felt pretty much alone with just about everyone I know vaccinated ( and with AZ mostly). My sensible voice says this will be ok for my son. This voice whispers though if that makes sense. The voice of anxiety is like the the loud rabble, and has a way of yelling more in the dark of night when the world is silent and my sensible voice is trying to say ‘Go to sleep’.
Today I have made myself an appt for an AZ vaccine. If my son can be this brave I’m hoping I can be led by him. I’m eligible for Pfizer but if he can’t have then neither will I. I’m telling my family and friends in the hope that helps me stick to my plan. I also know it’s likely I will make an excuse not to attend closer to the date. But that’s ok too. I’m going to give it a try. Stress level is high right now as I’ve just got off the phone from making the appt. I’ve also listened to the NSW Covid news on tv which I’m not sure is good or not. Anyway, wishing everyone a day that brings them happiness in some shape or form. x

[Needleina]

Sending you supportive thoughts CMF. Be proud you are trying again. Even tiny steps take us forward.

[Miz]

That sounds like a difficult situation Sleepy, I'm sorry you've been going through that. I totally understand how it can be really frustrating when people seem to complain about minor things, especially when you feel like you're at a mental breaking point. Just remember that everyone has a different perspective on the situation and some people don't have personal experience with mental health struggles which makes it hard for them to understand how the effects of lockdown can be really damaging for mental health. I think it's important to focus on yourself and not take what she says personally, just try and talk to people who are empathetic and understanding and don't spend your energy trying to argue with people who don't get it!

[quirkywords]

Thanks for all the personal posts giving us a glimpse into what life in the time of covid feel like.I feel this thread is a social document of out times.

[CMF]

Hi needleina,

Thank you, I've got you too. When are you booked in for (only if you want to say).

Let's do this together, as you said every little step helps. My 19yo son was happy too when I told him today that I'd booked. Too many people are suffering, businesses, school/uni students. It's just too much.