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.  

[Sarahbelle]

Hi meforcat's,

Like Summer Rose I agree it is really hard when plans change especially when you are looking so forward to seeing your friend especially at this time, is it possible to give them a call and have a chat or even the old fashioned thing write them a letter, post it, what a surprise for them too.

We all have those down days. Don't be too hard on yourself, take some big deep breaths and think about doing something for you - a little walk - a bubble bath - even draw a picture of a place you love.

Remember a small step is a helpful step.

Take good care,

Sarahbelle

[meforcats]

Thank you Summer Rose for your thoughts. I usually do exercises twice a day at home. I did them this morning but can't be bothered now. I know I should walk. That's nice you'll catch up with the woman you met. There's nothing like a face to face meeting.

Thanks again.

[meforcats]

Thank you Sarahbelle for your comments and ideas.

I finished a painting today and I have some knitting that I can do. I text friends a bit I'm more comfortable doing that instead of ringing.

Yesterday was a good day but I've been down on Mon and today. But I am looking forward to a show on tv tonight. I guess we all go up and down.

Thanks again.

[Jasmine_R]

I’m not cope with very well due this mosty when night time comes around I live on mine own with no family I can turn two when I’m down I fell lonely I fell like I have no one that’s there for me it makes me fell like I don’t want to be hear anymore I fell like I have no one ho loves me

[Sophie_M]

Hi Jasmine R,

We are so sorry to hear how lonely you've been feeling. We understand that this is a difficult time, and living alone might feel quite isolated. It might be worth reading through this thread as lots of community members have posted some of the methods they are using to cope with the isolation. We'd also recommend taking a look at out dedicated Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service where you will find a lot of targeted information as well as a 24/7 helpline staffed by specially trained mental health professionals. If you try getting in contact with the Support Service or try one of the coping methods a community member suggests, let us know how you go on your thread "Try to cope but find it so hard" - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/suicidal-thoughts-and-self-harm/try-to-cope-...

[Speak Your Truth]

Thank you for your support quirky. I’m doing my best to cope and be kind to myself but it’s the coping part that’s so hard. If we - you, me, someone - could magically make Covid disappear life would be so much easier. The reality is there is no end in sight and that’s what is SO difficult. How can we go on like this ??? My question is directed at the universe quirky, not you. I know you can’t answer that, no-one can.

best wishes to you, Cala

quirkywords said:

SYT I am sorry you feel this away and I also live in a very cold place and sometimes I am cold inside as well.

I have had a rough start to the year to the first and I know what it is like to have no motivation and to not want to do anything.

I suppose the point is as you are a caring person and I have seen on the forum how compassionate and responsive you are too others. I do know it seems so hard at the moment but I believe you will get through it. You have many people here cheering you on. Spend a day in bed, I am getting up later and later these cold mornings.

Please be kind to yourself and allow yourself to cope as you can. Don't press sure yourself.

[SapereAude]

Hi all,

It certainly has been a difficult time for most people. A small minority though have actually enjoyed their isolation for a myriad of reasons. Whilst most won’t post on this forum, I’m happy for those that have needed the break or space and benefited from it.
For the rest of us, it seems the common themes of solitude (loss of social life), financial distress, loss of work, issues with working / studying from home and mental health conditions have made these distressing and challenging times.

Whilst we will all react differently to an event and interpret information independently, I think it is important to give more thought to the reasons behind the isolation. We have seen Coronavirus have horrifying results overseas (ie Italy, Uk & USA) and at least our isolation is protecting the bulk of those who could otherwise fall seriously ill or event succumb to this scourge of a disease.

Hopefully the ease of restrictions nationwide is within sight now but we need to put faith in our decision makers to do their best for not just the physical and mental health of our country and states but the economic trade off also.

I hope you continue to find ways to seek light in the darkness and to support one another. Take care!

[Zephyr7]

I found this short post so helpful. I long for times to return to normal, being able to hug family and friends freely without worry, feeling confident at work again, and not trying to cope with isolation awaiting test results and living alone. I got a new cat 4 days ago, which is bringing up old issues for me. Its triggered a massive anxiety attack that comes in waves every day and is debilitating. I called in sick away work as I'd been vomiting, they asked me to get tested and I can't even WFH until the results arrive. We're a small team, I joined in Feb, so wouldn't get JobSeeker if I lose my job. Im terrified of this eventuality mostly because of the anxiety attack I know will come. Im on medication and mostly do incredibly well for 4 years. I'm being triggered by the cat, the lack of free social contact and my boss has started emailing me jobs to do, rather than our verbal discussions, due to a misunderstanding on both sides. I feel trapped, as I need this job but am unsure of my status in the team, as my role is one where everyone pitches in and my ownership is a bit fuzzy - what if they realise they can do without me and reject me? I feel like my cat is beautiful, and I was so excited to get her, but it's too new and I feel like I'm not in control. I really wanted a dog, but I live in an apartment...At the end of the day I know this pandemic will pass and work will resolve itself, but today I really want to be at home with Mum, feeling permanently safe and secure.

[Sarahbelle]

Hi meforcats,

I am so glad you were able to do all those things to do which is a great achievement. Hope your show was enjoyable too and today brings some joy.

I had a very shaky start to the day. Ups and downs seem very common for all at this very tricky time. Anxious moments come out of the blue and can derail me quickly. I seem to have got myself a bit more together now and taken a bit more perspective. Working at home so throwing myself into that at the moment. Looking forward to some pumpkin soup for lunch.

Take care all,

Sarahbelle

[meforcats]

Sarahbelle thank you. I enjoyed the show last night. It's a series. I felt down again this morning but I had a feet and hands massage. She's still allowed to work because it's called remedial massage.

I hope your anxiety settles down ok and hope you enjoyed your soup.

Take care.