Hello,

Just wanted to let you all know my uncle's results in nursing home came back negative last night so we are very thankful. Prayers and wishes to all who are suffering from this horrendous virus.

Numbers in Victoria are alarming today - very frightening makes me want to just stay at home - no where else to go really in lockdown. Home is where the heart is.

How are things going for you?

Take care,

Keep safe,

Sarahbelle.

Likewise missep!

Taking it one day at a time and trying to be at least a little productive working from home. I've been cooking more at home, trying out some new dishes, and started making my own pickles a few days ago! These little domestic tasks that keep your hands busy help do the trick for me, especially in the eventings.

Think of you and Sarahbelle especially. How are you missep?

Best,

Gems

Hi Missep and Gems,

Hope all is well with both of you.

Gems I agree with you keeping busy is a great help in these very strange times, keeps the mind and hands busy in a constructive way. What kind of pickles do you make?

Missep you always ask after us but hope you are going well too and you do things that also make you feel happy.

I made a momentus decision today and decisions are not always my forte - spoke with my boss and will be working 4 days next year - I have been working full time in education since age 21 (along time ago) so really feel so pleased about it. I think this pandemic has made me even more aware life is so short and fragile and to be free to take time for yourself.

Sun is shining here today so hard to believe what is happening out the door.

Take care and don't lose your smiles.

Sarahbelle.

Hi you guys!

Thank you for checking in on me :) It's a really nice feeling seeing these messages and knowing people care!

Gems - I really liked reading what you are up to! That's a really good idea to keep busy. I guess this is the time for us to learn new skills!

Sarahbelle- great to hear that your uncle tested negative. phewsh! I'm also really proud of you that you spoke to your boss and that you are working 4 days. I think that shows that you are putting your wellbeing first!

Hello Missep and Gems,

Hope this message finds you well and doing some enjoyable things that make you happy.

All the news in Melbourne is about our latest restrictions due to dreadfully high numbers - for me personally they reflect what I have already been doing but for some people bigger changes. Some how we have to all act together to protect each other from this virus. No point blaming just do what is right, too many people are suffering and dying as a result.

It is hard to hear we are now living not only in a state of emergency but upgraded to danger and the new curfew times make it very real. I can understand this will cause people greater anxiety but a necessary step as there are those few people not following directives and making it much harder and longer for others and this illness spreads like wild fire.

I am lucky my son, dog, work, crocheting, garden and a few good movies are keeping me grounded. I am trying not to get caught up in media hype - just factual information from reliable sources.

Please take good care of yourselves, I value the opportunity to have a chat with you,

Sarahbelle.

Please take care of yourselves and

Hi Sarahbelle and missep,

I was just thinking yesterday how much I value talking to both of you here on the forums, especially as things continue to get scarier and more uncertain.

Sarahbelle, that sounds like such a great decision for you– something to celebrate on its own, not to mention all your new free time. What films have you been watching? I started a "social distancing film club" thread here (https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/bb-social-zone/social-distancing-film-club) if you'd care to chat more about it or share/get some recommendations!

I'm going to continue wearing my mask and staying in here in Sydney– I hope people get with the program here so we can avoid the situation that poor Victoria is in.

All best,

Gems

Hi gems and Sarahbelle,

When I heard about the new restrictions in Victoria my heart hurt. I really do feel for everyone over there. Everyone is trying their best and trying to hang on to a feeling of hope and 'light at the end of the tunnel'.

I'm so glad that you are able to keep yourself grounded with those things you mentioned Sarahbelle, I can see so much growth the short period that I've known you!

Great idea with the social distancing film club gems! I agree about the mask too. I know this is a bit of a strange perk but as someone who is super into makeup I only have to put it on my eyes and the mask covers the rest of my face which saves me a lot of time.

Let's continue to support each other! What an awesome bunch you guys are! :)

Hello Gems and missep.

Always a treat to hear from you both, yes I think together we make a great little bunch with each other's care at the heart.

I have mainly been watching old movies and funny ones - don't watch anything too sad at the moment. I have also been watching a couple of series - Belgravia and Sanditon which were good. Gems thanks for the invite, will check out the thread.

Living in Melbourne is very eerie at the moment, there is that feeling of the unknown and waiting for something to almost explode. Trying to keep grounded is essential otherwise the danger is spinning out of control in a situation where you have very little. Keeping control of keeping yourself safe and those around you is a challenge - keeping positive is even bigger. But, it is something I am handling okay. Chatting with both of you has given me greater strength, thank you.

My uncle has more covid cases in his nursing home which is extremely worrying. These poor old ones are so so vulnerable.

Take care and stay in touch.

Sarahbelle

Hello again,

Sorry to bother you, but I just needed to feel someone is listening today. I feel I am not off to a good start today, didn't sleep hardly my mind was so busy with clutter and today I feel the shakes inside and out and am as jumpy as a kitten. Can't seem to focus on anything. I know it is me feeling anxious with all that is happening in Melbourne at the moment and a real feeling of disconnectedness even though I have my work. Even though we are all in this together we are also in it very alone. All my self care actions seem to be failing me right now. Feel annoyed with myself that I just can't seem to get it together, I do not want to fall into that pit again but don't know what to do. Melbourne used to feel relatively safe and a good place to live but not any more. COVID is messing with everyone you speak to - the topic of conversation on TV, phone calls and looks on all our faces covered with masks. Normal - a new normal what does that really mean as it changes everyday.

I feel politicians and experts are doing their best but they are also fighting an unknown relentless beast.

Scarey times ahead, poor Victoria. I hope all the other states never have to go through what is happening here.

Thanks for being here, take care,

Sarahbelle.

Hi All Have not posted here before have had my strugles over the years with the Beast of anxiety depresion PTSD etc.we always find a way through. Before this hit I was already not working due to chronic physical illness. Already worry about everyones future and my own this new BEAST makes it even tougher to see a way forward to the future.I fear I will never get work again. But that is a battle for another day right now my message is to you and myself hang tuff stay at home look to each other beat this and look forward to the other things it will all get better, thanks stay safe, if we bellieve it will get better it will, In terms of safe place it still is do the right thing when we are out for each other, keep up to date but when home thats your safe place,limit media reports break out the old board games trouble etc great fun any distraction, I am rambling,stay safe take care.

Hi everyone,

Sarahbelle - Some days are like that. I feel you. Some days I can cope really well and on other days COVID is on my mind. I think that you've grown so much and some days are harder than others. I'm glad you took the time to write how you felt here though. I think in a way that is self-care. We are listening and we care about you!

Gent- I can't even imagine how difficult and challenging this current climate is on your journey and also dealing with your 'beast'. I like the way that you described that though. I guess even for myself anxiety is my beast. It feels very rewarding when I can 'tame' it. Thank you for giving your perspective about that. You are so right, we look out for each other!

Gems- Hope you are well!

Thanks missep you are spot on, some days are like that. They come from who knows where and hit like a truck. I did bounce back better in the afternoon and today feel okay, I think it has helped that I got a good nights sleep. My best defense is to get busy to stop the intrusive thoughts and this also helps my body to start to calm - not easy but with practice does help.

Gent I remember my first post it was really hard but in some way freeing because others we have never met really care. On these forums we can see this is where we are not alone and "in this together".

Missep, Gems and Gent hope your day brings some sunshine and a butterfly.

Take care,

Sarahbelle.

Thank you to all for supportive comments.

Everyone says we are all in this together, but we need to stick together to stay together, we need to remember no matter who we are all of us hurt all of us suffer we are all human, we all care in some way.

Just reading posts the last few days has helped me feel less alone in my thoughts,stay safe take care and thanks

Good Morning All,

Gent, The post of mine you have referred to was me at a very vulnerable and frightening time so I do get what you are saying. Since then I have been able to get support and have put some strategies in place which are helpful for me. This forum and knowing others were there to help me was wonderful. It took time and effort but now am feeling more peaceful within. I still have difficult days with my mind on the run.

I understand your fear at this time and it is not easy. In Victoria I feel most people are very frustrated with those not following the new rules as it puts so many at risk.

One important thing I learnt was perspective - being able to see what is real and what I can control. These things for me are - limiting media - taking some peaceful time such as walking my dog, doing a craft, meditating and going to a safe place in my mind ----anything that is distracting is good. When you feel a bad thought get busy ---- it takes a lot of practice. Start small do something you enjoy.

I am sorry things are so hard for you at the moment.

Take care, Sarahbelle.

Hi all,

I hope everyone had a relaxing weekend, and those on the South Coast managed to stay dry! I attempted to go away for the weekend to Jervis Bay just to clear my head a bit, but alas there was incredible flooding! Still a nice change of scenery.

Gent, so glad to have you here with us. As Sarahbelle has said, these are difficult times but the forums can be a real source of strength. Hope you'll stick around and keep chatting with us! As you say, we need to walk the walk and not just talk the talk about being all in this together.

Sarahbelle, I'm sorry to reply so late but I'm glad to hear that your difficult day did at least pass (as they all must). I am worried but hopeful for Victoria, though I have to admit puzzled why NSW has been spared a similar fate despite not doing social distancing measure markedly better. I think your point about a good nights' sleep is key. I once heard on a podcast some people joking about how sleep (especially a nap) is like a train stop for your emotions to get off and new ones to get on. Often I find that I feel like a new person after a sleep or a meal, though of course these don't always do the trick. I'm so impressed and inspired by your determination and discipline to not let the dark thoughts win. It's something I get a lot of strength from in trying to do the same thing in my own life.

Missep, lovely as always to hear from you. Great point about the unexpected perk of masks lol! I think it's fascinating how we're all learning to be a bit more expressive with our eyes and hands now that our mouths and nose are covered. Reminds me a bit of the difference between sound and silent films, where actors would have to make big, dramatic movements to convey emotion because they couldn't talk!

Thinking of you all warmly.

Gems

Just a friendly Hello to you all,

Gem's I hope that the change of scenery helped you to have a break from the everyday and recharged you. Shame about the weather for you, however, the wind and rain on the coast can be mesmerizing. - cannot wait till I can once again move more than 5K from home - patience is the key and we will get there.

I loved your analogy of sleep/rest being like a train stop for the emotions.

Missep I have bought some cute face masks - It is amazing how they are taking off and people are having a bit of fun and creativity with them - seems to make the seriousness of wearing them more bearable. Masks are definately becoming the new makeup.

Gent I hope your days are becoming a little lighter amid all the concerns and you are finding something that you can enjoy doing.

Take care,

Sarahbelle.

Hi everyone!

I hope you are doing well. I think that we are all showing personal growth and great strength! We are supporting each other and trying our best to stay afloat of these waves that go up and down (literally and metaphorically)

I have some positive news though....I got engaged the other day! :D

Looking forward to hearing from you guys! I always enjoy our chats :)

Hi all! I hope your all doing okay in these times :)

its nice to see I'm not the only one dealing with the fear around having covid.

There are so many times I've felt this way and eventually it has passed (which I feel grateful for every time), but the uncertainty of it being the actual virus aways gets to me whenever it does happen. I'm an essential worker which definitely doesn't help the situation since I'm required to be out of the house 3 days a week minimum, and I interact with many people in a day. I've actually even considered if I could be a hypochondriac a few times just in general, so that definitely doesn't help the situation any more either.

I've noticed tonight in particular that I have completely lost my appetite, which is weird for me after a day at work since I'm usually always ready to eat! Does anyone else feel this way when they're anxious? I also feel generally uncomfortable as my chest might be feeling odd/tense. its hard to pinpoint exactly where I feel uncomfortable sometimes but I get that feeling occasionally? I wanna think I'm just being anxious about the way I'm physically feeling but It concerns me. I also wanted to know if there were any good tips on how to avoid obsessing over feeling physically unusual? Would love to see what you guys think of this!

Trish

Hello and welcome Trish,

It is amazing how when we are anxious and frightened about COVID our body can feel the symptoms as you have explained. it can be terrifying and can easily cause distress and panic. What helped me initially was seeing my Doctor and having a COVID test for reassurance. After this I learnt to recognise my anxiety and even if I felt the symptoms understand my anxiety was causing them (not easy and takes time). My Doctor also referred me to a Psychologist which has been so helpful in giving me strategies to manage.

It is also a good idea to limit the amount of media you watch - I went down to hearing daily numbers only. Now am able to handle more however still limit the amount. When talking with others too try not to always talk COVID as you can get caught in their anxiety too. Hope this is helpful.

Trish it is such a trying time for all. This forum and people I have connected with on it are so supportive, it has been a great source of strength to me.

Take care,

Sarahbelle.

Hi missep,

A huge CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

I am so pleased that you are feeling so excited and happy. Fabulous to hear good news!!!

I wish you all the happiness and love now and in the future and may your dreams come true.

Love and wishes,

Sarahbelle.

Hi Trish and welcome!!!

First of all, really well done for reaching out and sharing your thoughts. I can assure you that the next second of your life will suddenly change. Do you know why? You have an excellent insight into what is happening to you!!! You already know what is the problem!!! Great work.

Just a few tips I could mention would be like staying in the moment. Maybe it is just a thought, it will come and go. Let the thought come and go, don't hold on to it. Other tips would include if you would like to add a bit of meditation and yoga. Here are the links I have found for you!

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/staying-well/eating-well

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/supporting-yourself/why-you-should-do-something-for-yourself-every-day

https://www.innerengineering.com/online?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI_8-gtOyW6wIVSsEWBR3RgAraEAAYAiAAEgKAW_D_BwE

Thank you so much Sarahbelle! :) I was excited to tell you guys!

Trish_@ and Sarahbelle I know what you mean. The waves of media and information, it can get overwhelming. I find that I switch between calm and 'this is okay, I'm coping' to 'I feel trapped and when is this ever going to get better'. What I found myself thinking about today is that we are all going through this together. I feel comforted in that thought. We are allowed to vent and try to support ourselves as much as possible during these tough times.

Hi all,

missep,

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!! You must be so excited! As Sarahbelle said, it's so nice to have some good news to celebrate now.

Sarahbelle, how are you going on week 2 of lockdown? Watching anything good? I think your advice to Trish is exactly right.

Trish, welcome! The health anxiety you describe and physical symptoms of anxiety (changes to appetite, tightness in the chest, awareness of bodily sensations) are very common, and I've definitely experienced them myself. All we can do is try our best to stay informed but not over-informed, be patient, follow the guidelines, and keep one another in good spirits.

To echo Jasjit, mindfulness, staying in the moment, being able to get "outside" the anxious thought or feeling are great strategies. They can be frustrating and take a bit of work at the beginning, but these are great skills. Beyond that, getting connected with the right mental health resource is the best thing we can do if we're really struggling with health anxiety, and a GP can be a great person to turn to if it becomes a real problem.

Warmly,

Gems

Hello Everyone,

Gems so nice to hear from you. That was great news for missep - so nice to hear a story of hope and promise in these difficult times and generous of her to share the news with us.

I am going okay - get a bit stir crazy but make sure I get my dog out for a good walk most days. Today the sun is shining and absolutely perfect weather. On a day like this it is more easy for me to zone out on the problems outside and enjoy what I have right now at home - it can get lonely but I have a wonderful son. Working from home is keeping me busy too. Tomorrow is my mum's 1st anniversary since her death - she is on my mind alot, how I would love to be able to hold her hand and hug her - she gives me great strength everyday.

Hope you are able to get out and about a little bit and are keeping well.

Brenton it must be very hard for you at the moment and worrying that you cannot see your dear parents. I am sorry that this situation is keeping so many apart. Unfortunately the nature of this virus is just so ferocious.

Hoping better times will come soon.

Take care and stay safe everyone,

Sarahbelle.

Welcome Brenton!

I'll echo just what Sarahbelle said about acknowledging how hard this must be for you and how extraordinary the measures are to contain this unprecedented pandemic. All my family are overseas in the US so I know a bit about how you feel being stuck far apart, but luckily for my all my loved ones here in Australia are here in the same state with me. I can't imagine how frustrating it must be to have that barrier up and not know when you will be able to see your parents again.

I'm cautiously optimistic that as the worst of this wave subsides and we get a better handle on things, things like exemptions for compassionate reasons will be one of the first things reinstated.

Warmly,
Gems

Thank you for the kind words gems!!

Thinking about you all. We're in this together. I am really hoping that vaccines are created quickly and effectively. I really miss the beauty of social interaction! Thank goodness for these forums.

I've been joining the 'Three things to be thankful for today' thread. It really helps to think about anything, even the small things that keep us afloat.

Here for you all!

Hello missep, Gems and all,

Wet and miserable in Melbourne today, a good day to be indoors. It is sounding promising with possible future vaccines which gives hope to us all.

Victoria's numbers are much more steady but loss of life to COVID is such a tragedy.

I am doing okay - keeping busy with work and a little cooking, crocheting and some TV. not many movies but recently My Girl and My Girl 2- a little bit of nostalgia.

How are things for you and what have you been doing to fill your days?

Sending wishes your way,

Sarahbelle.