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.  

[CalmCat]

Hi Quarantined,

Thanks for your enlightening post. Firstly, I think you're going great guns, and to write so openly should be commended.

Secondly, you haven't made a mistake, your just doing your best, that's all a loved once could ask. Keep smiling and just rest, just rest.

Looking forward to hearing back from you.

Regards,

[texoz4]

I'm an Aussie living in the USA. More and more lately I'm having trouble controlling my anxiety. I have a "need to know" type personality and always research everything to the nth degree. With this virus, I found that I need to back away some as it was making the anxiety worse. Last night I looked at the current map and saw just how bad it has become here in the US and it hasn't even reached peak. I had a horrible anxiety attack. I'm afraid. I'm the poster girl for "underlying conditions." I'm in my early 50's, have medicated high blood pressure, suffer from asthma when sick, pre-diabetic. My eldest two kids, 20 & 17, don't take this seriously. They still want to go out and do stuff because they're bored. Of course their lax attitudes also add to my anxiety. We are currently all on lock down. Most places are closed here, except necessities. There's talk of opening up stores and businesses again next week. The thought of my kids going back to work this soon is terrifying.

[blondguy]

Hi Everyone 🙂

the power of 'distraction' can be a huge plus during this temporary crappy period

we are here and listening

Paul

[blondguy]

Hi Texoz

I feel for what you are going through....'kids' at 20 & 17 dont take a lot seriously....as you know they are invincible and having a good time

I understand you about having 'spiking' anxiety.....this is awful yet very common to have...I hope you can 'let go' of tracking the media....I just realised that I have been doing the same Texoz and have to back off as my anxiety has been accelerating...doh! Have you spoken to your doc about this? You have nothing to lose by doing so

you are always welcome to write your own thread (same for everyone above) as you will have better support 🙂

just a friendly note...I have a 26 year old daughter that lives with her BF and has the same attitude...oh my god

my appreciation and kind thoughts:-)

Paul

[geoff]

It's good to see that so many newcomers have joined the forums by posting on this particular thread because this is something that none of us has had to go through before, in such a large magnitude, with lockdowns and restrictions in what we are able to do.

We are all in full support of one another and hope the sooner a vaccine has been trialled and then approved, then we can get back to life.

Remember to have the 'flu shot' this winter, if you decide to, as my GP says every year it improves, which brings me to the question, I wonder how many people have had last years flu injection and not had coronavirus.

Take care.

Geoff.

[Guest_1584]

Gees that's a bloody good point Geoff. l've never had one but l'll get one this yr just as soon as they're out - when do they start btw ?

[Summer Rose]

Hi Randomx

If you didn't know, you can also receive a flu shot at most pharmacists. I called to book in our family last week (my usual practice) and was told the vaccine will be available in April.

Kind thoughts to you

[Peppermintbach]

Hi everyone,

I hope you are all being extra gentle & kind to yourselves (and each other) during this challenging time.

I just wanted to address and thank some lovely forum members who addressed me directly on this thread.

I hope that’s okay 🙂

Summer Rose: Thank you so much for your very encouraging and supportive words. It was generous & unexpected, & made me tear up a little.

It is now Saturday, so I’m in a more relaxed state of mind compared to earlier in the week. Many thanks again for supporting so many of us, including me, and I hope you’re taking good care of yourself this weekend 🙂

Kewbear: I’m glad that my words resonated. Yes, I think there is definitely something to be said about taking things day by day these days.

May you continue to find some moments of beauty & light during this difficult time.

All: I’ll be home as I don’t need to go out for work or essentials today. I think that I will look up some free exercise lessons online, make some art, and FaceTime a loved one tonight.

Staying home is an act of love for myself, family, friends, & the wider community, so I always try to remind myself that 🙂

Kindness and care to all,

Pepper

[geoff]

Hi RX, he surgery where I go tell patients that names will be put on the list in April, that's in the country, and injections given to people by the pharmacist may not have all the strains as what the one is given to you by your doctor, so just check.

Only going from what my GP told me.

Take care.

Geoff.

[Summer Rose]

Hi Texoz4

Firstly, I'm sorry you are experiencing increased anxiety. This is a really hard time, particularly in the USA. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I have young adults (22 and 24) living in our family home and we have had many discussions regarding their need to adhere to social distancing requirements. It's a little different for us in that, their father works in an essential service. The consequences of him falling in would be catastrophic, not just for our family but for our State.

Talking to them about the need for all of us to work as a unit has resonated with them. They understand that no one in our home can put others at risk because we are only as strong as our weakest link.

We set the rules together. I do the weekly shopping, hubby continues to work and they stay home and study uni on line. Everyone can take two walks a day. At the first sign of a sniffle or symptom, the unwell family member will be isolated within our home.

It's really as simple as that. Although we did have to fork out for some new gym equipment to keep the peace.

Without overly scaring them, try talking with your children some more. They need to appreciate the very real consequences for you should they bring the virus in your home.

Kind thoughts to you