How Lockdown-easing is affecting our mental health

Lockdown has been difficult for all of us, but especially for many of our drivers. There were some who continued as ‘normal’ going into work every day – albeit the roads were a lot quieter, which was one positive.  However, there were others for whom work stopped abruptly and they found themselves with lots of spare time and less money coming into the household.

Whichever group you were in there were challenges for yourselves and your families. We know and understand there were many families of key workers worried about their family member going out and coming into contact with the virus and bringing it back into the home. Loss of income in part or whole is always a stressful situation and one that is all-consuming for those affected.

During the last 5 months, many of us became teachers in our own homes, new culinary experts and bakers, started a new exercise regime, spent more time with our immediate family in the home, enjoyed our time in the outdoors and embraced the opportunities that lockdown provided. There were some however who were adversely affected, unfortunately, there were those who lived on their own or did not have a support network around and became lonely, reclusive, depressed or anxious. These could be new feelings or previously experienced but made worse by the uncertain and frightening times.

When we were in full lockdown the rules were clear but as we are easing out of lockdown and more and more places are opening, social distancing rules have been relaxed when required and where the changes are happening fairly quickly this has caused us to face some new challenges. If you, a family member or friend is apprehensive with the easing of lockdown there is an informative piece here that could help.

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/managing-feelings-about-lockdown-easing/#WhatMightIBeFeelingAboutLockdownEasing

The important thing to remember is that we are ALL in this together – whatever part we play we are ALL important. We need to be embracing self-care and listening to those around us. Is there a friend, a colleague or family member that seems like they are particularly down in the dumps or whose behaviour has changed noticeably? If you are worried about anyone you can simply ask them how they are and listen - sometimes this can be all that is needed. If you feel there is more to their feelings or they may need a professional ear then there is plenty of help out there starting with their GP. If they do not feel able to share with them there is also plenty of help online and over the phone. We have listed below some of the available helpful resources.

NHS: www.nhs.uk

Mind: www.mind.org.uk or call 020 8519 2122

Samaritans: www.samaritans.org.uk or call FREE 116 123 (24 hours a day/365 days a year)

Anxiety UK: www.anxietyuk.org.uk or call 08444 775774