Anxiety on the lockdown changes to those shielding

[TM1972]

I have been shielding since 16th March as I have HCL. I know I can now go for a walk outside but I am too afraid to. My husband who is shielding with me has been going for a walk, but I am still reluctant to go. Is this normal to feel like this? My anxiety is through the roof and my GP has prescribed me Propranolol to help with the heart palpitations. Has anybody else felt this way or am I being too paranoid?

[emmieb-UK]

Hi - I think that's not unusual! And dare I say normal. I've been lucky enough to have been working with a therapist before this all kicked off. I think for many of us this period of isolation triggers off other memories particularly around isolation after chemo. Because I got agoraphobic after chemo I've been going for a walk every day to stop mental health issues escalating. I do take hand gel with me at all times and keep social distance, etc. However, I live in a very remote area so I'm luckier than many, If you can I'd get some mental health support but I know this isn't an option for everyone. I'm paying privately. I watched a webinar from Leukaemia Care last week (I think!) and it was very reassuring about level of risk. They are available online.

I'm sure others will share their thoughts too.

[HAIRBEAR_UK Administrator]

Hi TM1972 thank you for sharing with us. you are not alone I think many patients are reacting the same way and gaining the confidence to manage going out and how to avoid risks is hard to do.

in response to many CLL patients sharing this same experience we complied a list of supportive resources that you may find helpful to aid you cope with life in these changing times . HCL is a subgroup of the CLL family of diseases these resources may be helpful us5.campaign-archive.com/?e...

Leukaemia care do provide a counselling fund for patients

that may help you transition and cope..

The Ann Ashley leukaemia counselling fund is providing access to private counselling services through the provision of grants, so that leukaemia patients and their loved ones affected by a blood cancer diagnosis get the emotional and psychological support they need.

While face-to-face counselling sessions are not possible at the moment, we are funding consultations which can be provided over the telephone or video conference. This scheme is open to patients but it is also open to your family members who have been affected by the diagnosis.

Find out more about the application process today. If you have any queries or would like a phone call to discuss the scheme before applying, please email [e-mail]

It’s understandable that you or your loved ones will have questions. Our Nurse Advisors are also available

You can also speak to a nurse to discuss your worries

Helpline

Our Nurse Advisors are available every weekday on our free helpline. You can speak to a nurse at the following times:

Monday – 9am – 1:30pm

Tuesday – 9am – 1:30pm

Wednesday – 9am – 1:30pm

Thursday – 9am – 1:30pm and 7pm – 10pm

Friday – 9am – 1:30pm and 7pm – 10pm

Nick

[2003UK Champion]

Oh, please do not think you are being paranoid, your feelings are your feelings. I have also been shielding since mid March and I have not left our flat yet. My emotions have been all over the place including wanting to burst into tears out of the blue.

My husband has been self isolating but always going to the shops etc. so apart from not going to the offices where he does voluntary work once a week and going to a few meetings his life has not really changed.

Before I was out and about a lot of the time but I have adapted and got into a new, perhaps less stressful routine during lockdown. Yes, it is a comfortable, safe existence I suppose. We don't know what it is like to social isolate etc. I cannot get my head round how dangerous it is for me out there although the 1 in 1700 chance of catching Covid-19 the most helpful.

I know when I go out for the first time it will feel very weird but that I will soon adapt back into hopefully a 'new routine' with me saying 'no' more. I do really want some fresh air.

The Leukaemia Care Charity helpline is open Monday - Friday 9am until 5pm and they have a special evening service on a Thursday and Friday 7pm - 10pm. The number is freephone 08088 010 444. if you feel the need to chat to someone. Take it steady and just take sensible precautions when you do step out.