Sending a message of love, hope, and positivity to all members x

Dear all,

In these uncertain times it's easy to become overwhelmed with confusion, fear for ourselves and loved ones, and a sense of dread for the world. For the sake of our mental health and wellbeing we need to find positives to balance the negatives.

I'm not a virologist and do not claim any expertise in these matters but do work in a hospital laboratory dealing with covid19. The overwhelming message I get from senior colleagues is that:

1. Whilst a very serious disease that requires the govt action to slow down its transmission so that the nhs is not overwhelmed and there are no unnecessary deaths, it has in fact not proved to be fatal to everyone that has caught it. Many more have lived than died. Last figs for UK deaths were around 5%. ( remember, that's of people who caught it, not of the 66million who live in uk.). Obv figs can change but have been steady so far as a %.

I absolutely dont want to trivialise this but if you're worried and it's affecting you then for the sake of your mental wellbeing try and put it in perspective - the way I look at it is if you thought you had a 95% chance of winning the lottery you'd be happy. Currently then, in general terms, barring other illness, if you follow the govt guidance you have a 95% + chance of living. That's good right?

Of course my sympathies go to anyone who has suffered loss x

2. There are differences between countries because of population demographics and social norms - eg Italy has one of the highest aged population in Europe and these are a particularly vulnerable group, China suffered immensely in the beginning but things are getting better there now because of the measures they've taken. This will end. How, is down to all of us doing our bit.

So i think we should humbly learn from what's happening elsewhere, acknowledge their terrible losses and sacrifices and pay respect to them by doing all we can to use that information to positively impact our own health and the health of those around us. Knowing we are doing something good for humanity near and far should make us feel proud. And that's a positive feeling.

3 Following govt guidance on isolation, social distancing, handwashing etc WILL make a huge difference to the eventual outcome. It's not that difficult and the sooner everyone gets on board with it the sooner it'll be over.

So instead of perhaps feeling like a prisoner in your own home maybe use this time to do something you've been putting off, that spring clean, sorting clothes ready for the charity shop, painting, writing, following an online exercise class, picking up that guitar you always said youd learn one day. Make a point to do something every day that makes you happy - the possibilities are many and your mind and body will thank you for it.

I'm probably going to be off line for a few days now as work is crazy busy but just wanted to send love, hugs, and a positive vibe to everyone.

Take care, be safe, follow Gov't advice x

[springcross]

Many thanks for that and the same to you.

[Annsandra13]

Thank you or caring and sending you thoughts and perspective. It is indeed such a difficult time or everyone particularly for people who live alone or who have health problems.

We have to listen to the scientists and medic’s advice, self isolate and stay safe.

Reaching out to others to keep in touch, lift their spirts, chat to the young and alleviate their anxieties.

Trying to keep a routine at home will help.

I am doing daily classes with my grandchildren on creative writing and encouraging artwork alongside.

Ringing friends who have no family.

Keeping in touch with family and friends on what’s app!

So my heart goes out to all at this terrible time and in the meantime keep safe keep your spirits up, eat healthy and monitor your eyes.

I hear the eye clinics are working on a pathway to continue treatment and will red flag patients who are needing to be seen more urgently.

Sending love to all

[Emelinep]

Eyesright you are a star. I’ve been getting more and more emotional & frightened these past days to the point where I was considering not even going for my next appointment (which I haven’t got yet). I found the applause for nhs last night so wonderful the whole of my Street was out. So thank you for putting some positivity on here. The lottery analogy did it for me. We’re very lucky with a supportive WhatsApp group in the road & the younger ones are getting prescriptions etc. I am having a grocery delivery this morning too. The sun is shining & I feel blessed right now. Thanks again. Stay safe xx

[Hidden in reply to Emelinep]

Thnx v much x noone in my street clapped . Mind you, I wouldn't want " the clap" from any of them lol!

Have you had the email from Health Unlocked re new covid 19 emotional support community? Nice to see.

[Emelinep]

No I haven’t seen the HU post. I’ll have a look. Well if no one in your street clapped, part of mine was for you. What about if the clap was also a cure for Covid 19 though - there’s a thought lol x