Anyone else feel like they’re shielding for their mental health?

[spongebob57]

When lockdown started, I was going on daily walks with my kid. Then about 2 weeks in, somebody drove past in their car wearing a full on war-like gas mask and it freaked me right out. I haven’t been out since.

I can see that restrictions are being lifted and places are starting to open up, but with all the guidelines and people wearing face masks, I have no desire to go out there.

So yeah, I was just wondering if anyone was feeling the same - staying in is still essential for their mental health?

[LoveBear]

Hi you’re ok to get some fresh air and walk you dog. Wear mask and wash your hands when you get back. You can put together 2 layers of any cotton material, including the bottom of a t- shirt, and use hair elastics around end of masks and around your ears. Just wear a mask and avoid large crowds. Getting out is very important for your mental health.

[Dolphin14]

I think it's important to get out. I know I don't want to get too comfortable staying in. If I do I may never go out.

You will see all kinds of face masks out there and thats individual choice.

I would rather see a mask than no mask.

[hypercat54]

To be honest I think this is the worst thing to do for your mental health and can only make it worse. Unless you are in one of the high risk groups you don't need to shield.

[spongebob57]

Perhaps I should say I have a lovely big garden, so it’s not like I haven’t been getting some sun and fresh air. Also a friend came round the other day - we had a socially distant afternoon garden tea party

I just have a lot of anxiety around seeing people in masks everywhere and trying to follow all the new rules etc

[Coriel in reply to spongebob57]

I know how you feel. I wear the mask and gloves and have cancelled plans for trips home to visit my friends and family, skipped out on concerts and events we wanted to plan to go to all spring/summer. We only shop every 3 weeks and I have a new anxiety about going into stores, it’s something I hope passes in time, I don’t want it to be permanent. I’m gonna make myself face it and try to relax and be less paranoid everyone around me has covid! But I’m a work in progress