Hi everyone
I just wanted to jump in and see how you are all doing and to also to see how you are going in these times of change with how we are living our lives during COVID-19. These are really strange times and some of the things that we do or things we have in our safety plans may not be possible, I just wanted to reach out and see what you are doing and how you are coping when some of the ways to connect are not realistic at the moment.
It is a really great time to update, and if you haven't already got on to the Beyond Now Safety App, to have a look and make some changes so that they are current and reflect the changes that are in place with physical distancing as well as isolation. What can you do instead of seeing your best friend for a coffee and a hug? Using things like face time or house party or the apps that you can see your friend and have a "virtual coffee" and a "virtual hug".
Here is the link to the information about the Beyond Now app:
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning
One of the really awesome things is that you can get some assistance in completing your plan with some help from the Suicide Call-back Service (1300 659 467) or Lifeline (131114) with one of their counselors over the phone if you do need some extra support or some relevant ideas during this time.
I would really love to know, if you feel comfortable sharing that is, what you are doing to stay focused on your reasons to live and to stay safe, how you are staying connected with your loved ones and the community, it might even be you have joined new groups or even chatting here on the forums.
Step 5 in the Beyond Now app is People and places I can connect with, so it would be really great to know how you are staying connected with those who support you through your time of need and what changes you are making during this time of isolation and physical distancing..what is working for you now?
I appreciate so very much the sharing and knowing about the ways you do stay safe, the way you do reach out to keep safe and to stay alive, just know that you are helping so many others too, that read these threads and may not have the courage to post. You are so valuable and I appreciate you.
Stay safe everyone and huge hugs to you all
Sarah xx