COVID lonliness and increase in mental struggles

[Sofia_L]

I have had major depressive disorder for almost 10 years now and was managing it very well for a long time. But the last few weeks of isolation have really been a significant challenge. Prior to isolation, I broke up with my boyfriend, which I don't regret as I did not love him anymore. I also moved out of my parents house and was so excited for the new things my life was offering. Then it all changed when I lost my job to COVID, my studies went online and could not see my friends anymore.

The last week has been one of the biggest mental struggles I've encountered yet. I am so, so depressed and lacking motivation to do anything. I have almost no appetite, and struggle to cook/eat even though I have a fridge full of fresh food. I get out of bed, make myself my normal breakfast and just can not stomach it. I have no motivation to do anything, and am really struggling to get out of bed each morning. I've been waking up crying, and have major crying fits throughout the day over nothing.

I am trying so hard to be proactive and have made an appointment with my GP and brought my psychiatrist appointment forward. However I am just struggling with the lack of human connection. In the past I have relied on friends and family to help me through the tougher times and it's far too difficult to do this over social media.

Is anyone feeling in a similar place due to the isolation and restrictions? I am sure I am not alone, and it would be really great to hear from others about how they are coping.

Thank you all for reading x

[james1]

Hello Sofia,

It is nice to meet you here.

I am sad to hear about your struggles at the moment and I think they are shared across the community. For me, I am lucky in a way to also have a few pets who keep me pretty busy through the day. It is really hard at the moment because I would normally suggest that keeping busy outside is one way to help with the feeling of loneliness and even loss of motivation, but isolation of course means you can't really do that.

Do you keep in touch with your friends on the phone at all? I have had some online video calls with friends since we went into isolation and, it's not the same, but it's helpful just having people to chat to. I understand it's challenging over social media, so perhaps a bit more old school might help.

James

[gentlydoesit]

Hi Sofia L, coping in this world at the moment is hard enough on a so called normal level, yet look at so far you had your act together before covid, I hear you on the lack of motivation and how hard it is without our social part of life. I have empathy on the crying randomly, trying to cook, I have kids so living by yourself must be sooo hard!! I've pretty much been hooked on music, headphones are good to get rid of harshness. Just know you are not ever alone, get onto the forum more, it can help to know your human, not just existing in this way of life, Look take care,things can only be better, you sound like a positive person.!

[Sofia_L]

Thanks so much for your reply James.
I have ended up spending a lot of time at my parents house because my dog is there and he just knows when I am sad. He's spent all day with me resting his head on my leg. I do find it hard to express myself over social media and sometimes misinterpret responses, so I think tomorrow I might call up a few friends. This whole isolation thing is just so hard and I am sure everyone, even those without mental illness, are finding things tough right now

[Sofia_L]

Realistically I know I have a good life and am very privileged for this, however right now it's hard to see these positives. This is my first post on the forum but I love the idea of everyone supporting each other, especially through this time.
I try go for walks around the neighbourhood. I was previously really into lot's exercise, but I think it's all a bit too much for me right now so I might stick to nice relaxing walks.

[Emmen]

Hi Sofia,

Walks are a great way to feel better. If you feel up to it, you can also consider playing online card or board games with your friends. I find that it feels more like a regular meet-up than calls alone.

Warm wishes,
Emmen

[Houndhound]

Hi Sofia,

I just wanted to say I'm really feeling it too. I've had depression and anxiety for many years and function well mostly, but the isolation has hit me pretty hard. Some days I think I'm OK and then I'm just not.

Today, the pain kind of radiates from my heart to the pit of my stomach. It's a bit intense.

I've gone outside maybe 3 or 4 times in 6 weeks. It's not good

[Sophie_M]

Hey Houndhound, welcome to the Beyond Blue forums. We're so glad you've decided to join us here.  We're so sorry to hear of the difficult past few months that you have been through. But please know that you've come to a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about your thoughts and feelings, and our wonderful community is here to provide you with as much support, advice and conversation as you need.

If you feel up to it, we'd recommend reaching out to our Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service. The website will be regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time. You can also call our dedicated support line, staffed by mental health professionals, which is available 24/7 on 1800 512 348.
We hope that you keep checking in to let us know how you're going, whenever you feel up to it.