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.  

[Speak Your Truth]

Thank you Lou-Lou for your reply and for understanding. I have read somewhere here before about allowing ourselves 15 minutes a day to worry and then forget it - maybe it was your reply I read. 🙏

You are right, of course, that’s it’s out of our control, that nobody has the answers to any of it. I wasn’t really expecting answers Lou-Lou. What I was looking for I guess, was answers along the lines of what what you gave me, so thank you.

I do play CDs or music from uTube. I will look into the Insight Timer too. I haven’t heard of it before. A meditation re coronavirus is a good idea.

I feel calmer for reading your post. 🤗😘 Cala

[Sarahbelle]

Thank you everyone for your feelings on the current covid pandemic and advice.

I am new at this forum so will do my best to join in.

I feel really scared and like Iam losing control.

I keep feeling the syptoms and can't seem to get myself back. I think i have experiences every sympton so far and several panic attackes

I know I do get anxious but this is taking its toll.

I know this true for all in different ways.

I can cope with the isolation but the thoughts of having the virus for me are the hardest, I have a wonderful son who is so level headed and my behaviour impacts on him too.

Appreciate any feedback.

[quirkywords]

hello everyone reading

sarahbelle,

Welcome to this thread and forum. You are not alone and this is a supportive place.

our words will resonate with many reading. It is a scary time. I know every time I sneeze cough or think I have a

light sore throat, I think I have symptoms . I know I don't but it goes through ones mind.

Some people find reducing the amount of news reports or social media about covid-19 can help.

this is a good place to read and post if you want.

you are aware of what you are doing and thinking and that is a good place to start.

[CalmCat]

Hi Sarahbelle,

Sorry to hear that you've felt panic attacks developing.

Reading your post gave me a scene of comfort as I felt not alone; I had a terrible mental health night (anxiety and panic stricken). I was up so late battling my thoughts. But I powered through and am now having a great day.

I've found this forum so helpful in these uncertain times.

Keep being the awesome person you are. We can all power through these uncertain time.

Regards,

Doz

[Summer Rose]

Hi Sarahbelle

Welcome to bb and this thread. I can certainly understand your fear of catching the virus. You are not alone. My suggestion is to focus on the facts.

The evidence clearly shows that virtually anywhere you live in Autralia the chances of you catching the virus are very low. By working together and abiding by new physical diatancing rules we are flattening the curve. Our success greatly reduces the odds that any of us will fall ill.

Thankfully, if you do display symtoms you should now be able to get access to a test. This reduction in needless fear and anxiety is another positive.

And finally, the facts demonstrate that our hospitals are not overrun. Our medical professionals are not only coping, they are doing an amazing job.This means good outcomes are much more likely.

You hang in there. Coronavirus will pass.

Kind thoughts to you

[Maggiee]

Hi I’ve just joined up. Have severe anxiety but made worse now that am isolated. Especially from our grandchildren.
yes we do video chats but not the same as physical hugs and cuddles.
as we get further in I keep looking at photos of them and cry.
apart from that I’m smoking too much. And have one drink a night.

[Hu]

Is there anyone here who feels that nobody understands where you are coming from? that instead of supporting you is thinking you are a bad person. a selfish one.

[GavH]

Hi All,

We are certainly challenged in these uncertain times and it is definitely much harder to stay positive. I was busy looking for a job before COVID turned things around but luckily have some savings to see us through for awhile. To look after myself, I am myself I am trying to stay positive and healthy (mental & physical) and I have found the following work for me:

- maintaining a routine, even if I am mainly stuck at home.

- getting out and exercising on my bike, which is as much physical as mental. I try and look out for nice things in nature when I am riding.

- attending more Toastmasters meetings. Though the meetings are now online, there is still interaction with other people, I still get to improve my communication and leadership skills and being online there are new skills to learn. It is always good to listen to other people's stories and to be able to help people.

- reaching out to people for a chat.

- avoiding watching, reading and listening to too much news, particularly overseas news.

- listing each day 5 things that I am grateful for.

Hopefully these might help someone else.

[Sarahbelle]

Thank you Summer Rose for your kind and encouraging words.

I know it is one step at a time and I need to challenge my thoughts. Trying hard.

Night time is the worst when my mind runs rampid.

That's when I found this forum. It is comforting to know I am no alone.

Again thankyo.

Sarah Belle.

[Sarahbelle]

Wow I cannot believe how many people replied. A big thankyou to you all.

Your wisdom and understanding is amazing.

I understand you are also scared at this time.

Good people like you make things a little easier.

Sarah Belle