Firstly, having seen the incredible work some friends and so many of the NHS staff are doing right now to save lives, I have to say a big thank you to them and all the work they do, many doing multiple shifts. The spread of the virus is dealt with by these guys on the front-line and it’s impressive to see so many doctors and nurses return to fight the good fight. There’s no doubt the impact of the Covid 19 outbreak is life-changing.

Not being able to go to work is the hardest thing of all, apart from fatally contracting Covid 19, that is. For those, like myself, who have lost our jobs at a most unfortunate time, and can’t get another one because no one’s hiring, life is unsure. But, unemployment happens, and has done so before, and I will get back in the job market. Right now, like so many, there are the things we all took for granted; going to the gym, driving where and whenever, and going to work. Much of our identity is built on the social patterns of our daily lives, so the restrictions will an effect on the metal-health of all of us.

Even the simple routine of leaving the house for ten hours a day, is what kept some people together. The dynamics of the normal routine of work, that keep the mind sane and assured, will be challenged by the growing restrictions on our personal freedoms. When making rare trips to the supermarket, people abide by the rules and get home as soon as they can. But in our homes, we all need a break from each other, no matter how much we love our family, all those niggly things we put up with, will now become that bit more annoying. Kids will have an extended holiday, but nowhere to go, creating a tension and frustration that will vent one way or the other.

Without an environment to give the working-population social boundaries, many of us, who don’t usually work from home, will inevitably go a bit odd. Maybe we shave less, men and women, wash less, dress down to our baggies every day, get a bit to use to sitting around and sleeping longer. At some point, and we are only three weeks in, cracks will appear and it’s how we respond that will show what we are made of. Introverts may cheer, momentarily, but they’ll only become more introvert. This will become a nightmare situation if we don’t adapt.

So, what’s the answer to the new challenge ahead? I believe, a good dose of self-development. Keep busy and never let a good crisis go to waste. Either you take the opportunity to do some work-related course, improve your relationships, work through difference and emotionally develop. Or, assuming that’s all fine, read more, learn a new language, a musical instrument, learn about what makes you tick, or what isn’t ticking right. Re-examine your goals, tidy up your home, build and maintain it, for when you don’t have the time. Support those around you, who find these times challenging, volunteer for the NHS, food banks, church relief, but do something other than nothing.  The devil makes work for idle hands, so remember to keep busy, find something to expand your mind, your happiness, your future possibilities.

As painful as these events are, it seems to bring the best out in all of us, as though we learn to be grateful for the people around us, our community and ourselves. Take care of yourselves and those who may need a bit of help right now.