This is a very anxious time for all of us but especially people who have been shielding.
Although the current rate of infection of Covid19 in Scotland is low we have seen recently how quickly an outbreak can develop when people forget about physical distancing and the other measures designed to keep us all safe.
Lockdown was hard and for those who were in the shielding category it was extended until it was felt that the risks had reduced enough in the community that they could now follow the same advice as everyone else in Scotland.
The Clear Your Head campaign acknowledges the challenges facing those who have lived with the most severe restrictions over the last four months. It offers practical advice to help deal with feelings of fear and uncertainty.
Link: Clear Your Head
These include:
- Build things back up gradually, doing a little more every few days.
- Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle and routine.
- Focus on the things you can control such as complying with physical distancing and wearing face coverings.
- Return to the things that you enjoy as soon as possible.
- Don’t let a bad day or experience set you back – try again, maybe in a few days.
The Clear Your Head website provides a range of tips and sources of advice to help people look after their mental health over the coming weeks and months as they adapt and adjust.
Dr Alastair Cook, Principal Medical Officer for Mental Health said:
“Whilst some of those who have been shielding may be looking forward to a return to work, activity and increased social contact, many will have experienced a loss of confidence arising from the natural fear and anxiety the pandemic has generated.
“Feelings of anxiety are normal and to be expected, but there are things you can do that will help.
“Build things back up slowly and focus on the things you are in control of.
“Try not to get anxious or frustrated by others that do things differently, as your frustration will impact on you more than it does them.
“Sometimes things won’t go to plan and you may experience more anxiety in a situation than expected. This is normal and it’s important not to blame yourself for a setback or let it stop you trying to return to activity.
“Take things a day at a time and remember that help is available if you need it. Be kind to yourself, and reach out if you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling.”
The national COVID-19 helpline puts people in contact with their local authority. You can call 0800 111 4000 for free. It is open Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. The helpline will remain open even now shielding has paused.
More information on shielding here: Coronavirus (COVID-19): shielding advice and support
Helpline for those who are not able to have support from friends, family or neighbours
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Since restrictions were eased, two people have come round to see us, at home. After months of me not going anywhere where there are people – due to my general state of mankiness – it is good to be able to see people again. I just hope that we can continue on an upward road in Orkney. I won’t go out to, for example, restaurants, until maybe October/November – when the visitors have stopped. You don’t know where they’ve beeeeen!
What I don’t understand is – why people want to go far away on holiday, when they have to be so careful? Why not just pootle about, closer to home, and…wait? Folk have got too used to having everything they want, and having it NOW!
Sometimes, you just can’t do what you want – for one reason or another. I suppose I’m used to not being able to do things that I’d like to do, so, maybe I can accept it more easily. But – needs must, these days, for everyone.