Update on me, the pandemic and my mental health

ChrisW

Not been around much and the pandemic hasn't helped, more about that later. Since I joined (March 2018) at lot has happened in my life which has had serious impact on my mental health. I've revisited some really dark places, I don't want to elaborate as it might trigger others. On a brighter note, I've had some high moments too. I now do volunteer work with a local charity helping those suffering loneliness and isolation, I campaign against Stigma and discrimination in mental health, I support a local Art's and Craft group for people struggling with mental and physical disabilities. During the Pandemic all the above groups have had to either stop or find alternative strategies. Isolation and Loneliness now produce a monthly newsletter which is distributed to members by a team of volunteers who socially distance but make a personal contact and offer help with shopping or other needs, it also contacts every member by phone, email or visit every week. Sadly, Arts and Craft has had to stop it's meetings due to the venue being closed, likewise the weekly Bingo group that I run every Thursday, though we did try outdoors but it didn't work out weather wise given the age and health of the members. These have been highlights to help cope with the pandemic, though my personal mental health has seen me hospitalised twice since the start. Not sure about others but the longer it goes on and the general confusion surrounding lockdowns, it is a daily struggle to either be motivated or just exist. Life will never be normal again I think and there doesn't seem the support for those with disabilities or mental health issues.

Cher_Alumni

Hello @ChrisW and thank you for letting us know how you've been getting on.

The pandemic has really hit hard all the social activities we used to love.  I think it's great that you are helping the loneliness and isolation charity continue in these difficult circumstances.  These are issues that are more rife than ever as we all find ourself indoors more.  We have been talking about it on this "How are you finding socialising post-lockdown" thread if you want to have a look. 

Thank you for telling us so sensitively about your mental health too.  I'm sorry you have been hospitalised and I hope things start to become a little easier soon.  In the meantime, if ever you should need company we are here.

Do you have much planned for today?

Tori_Scope

It sounds like you've been up to a lot of positive things @ChrisW, despite the challenging circumstances Thank you for sharing.

Hopefully we can help to provide some support for you. How have you been feeling today? 

janer1967

Hi Thankyou for sharing with us your feelings. It looks like you have been doing some great work and also trying different strategies in the current times

I think until there is a vaccination for all then we wlll not get back ti life as we knew it before

All we can do is stay positive ands try and come u with new ways of doing things

Chloe_Alumni

Hi @ChrisW, how are you doing today?