I hope folks out there are doing OK with news of another lockdown. Me, I'm not doing OK. After last year - when a putative 6 week lockdown became three months and was only ended when the public was verging on mutiny - I don't believe for a minute that this one will be so brief.

Hi The Writing Monk,

Thank you for reaching out to us to share these thoughts. We want to assure you that you are very much not alone in feeling this way on the back of the Victorian government's lunchtime announcement. We're sure other members of our wonderful online forums community will be along shortly to further assure you of this. 

While the peer support on offer here is often quick, it is important to remember it is not immediate.

For brief counselling, support and referrals to help you protect your mental wellbeing in the face of another lockdown please do not hesitate to reach out to the qualified professionals at our Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service day or night on 1800 512 348 or via webchat by following the links in the top right corner of this page: https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/. You might also like to check out what other people are saying on our dedicated "Coping during the coronavirus outbreak" forum thread here: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/coping-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak

If you feel you're reaching a crisis point, please reach out to our friends at Lifeline on 13 11 14 and if you think you're at risk of immediate physical harm, it's an emergency and you should call 000 straightaway.

Hey The Writing Monk, welcome.

Yep, I'm from VIC, and I'm regional but it's still annoying. Don't get me started about idiot Dan, he has no clue and likes to tortue us all. He doesn't care about those losing money, jobs, businesses, houses, lives, etc.

Thinking of you.

Feel the same way.😭 Been super depressed today. Like I’m kinda relieved school is delayed as I was nervous to go back on Monday(personal reasons) but every time my confidence is that slightly bit better, Sir Corona keeps on coming. Boom. Lockdown again and then my Slight confidence is gone. Hopefully it won’t be as bad. Hoping.🤞

I am also a mess. I just can’t believe it will only be 5 days considering all the past lockdowns. It’s just bullshit. Like I’m just so angry that we are here again. My family and friends are all back in nsw saying things like ‘it’s only 5 days, it will be over soon, you are being dramatic’ and I just want to scream back at them because they aren’t here and they aren’t living this life. Like honestly I’m just so confused/stressed/mad. Life at my house was already pretty stressful and now I’ve got no escape. I know they need to get on top of things. Like I get it. But. It’s just a lot to take in.

Hi The Writing Monk

I'm a Melbourne gal feeling pretty triggered today. I think most people are spilling over into complete intolerance and a little fury, regarding the state governments highly questionable stuff ups with COVID. My heart truly goes out to all those who are impacted in the way of mental health.

I tend to agree with you regarding this '5 day' lock down. Any decisions and announcements made by the government that tend to be questionable are naturally questionable for good reason. My question, 'What does the state government hope to achieve in only 5 days?' I imagine a lot of people are asking that same question. I am hoping and wishing for everyone's sake it is only 5 days and we are all pleasantly surprised.

I believe 2nd lock down had us look at the nature of people, how we naturally work and how we suffer through a lack of certain things in life. I found it challenged me greatly. It's been some years since I left depression behind me and it wasn't until that last lengthy lock down in Melbourne that I realised many of the factors that help keep me out of depression. Excitement, adventure (adding new ventures to life), basic social interaction, simple everyday things to look forward to as well as choice are just a handful of those mental health strategies that can help make a positive difference. With a lack of these factors, it's amazing how our chemistry and perception can take a turn. Also, with a lack of things to do, there is more time to think. For some people, thoughts can be torturous.

Wondering if you were able find a couple of new strategies for managing your mental health during last lock down. Maybe a couple of things that made even a slight difference. Personally, I became a bit of an emotional eater and it shows :) I found joy, peace, excitement, adventure, happiness and entertainment in food, amongst other emotions. It was the 'wrong' types of food; those 'occasional' snacks became regular everyday ones. Although good for the mind and soul, not so good for the body. it's such a challenge to find new ways to manage our mental health and emotions, ways that can be a little outside the square. I've found that 'outside the square' can sometimes be full of the differences we may never have dared try before. Outside the square's where courage tends to exist. More courage and less food for me this time 'round.

What about you? Can you think of anything outside the square that could possibly reform or redefine you this time around?

:)

I feel similarly to you, Monk. I feel just hopeless today. I am again missing an opportunity to reunite with my interstate boyfriend. I feel so many emotions - fear, grief, trauma, anger. I'm just sitting with my feelings for now - perhaps they will settle down in coming days when I learn to accept this. Bit, for now, your post has given me comfort that I am not alone.

Hello The Writing Monk, yes another lockdown for Victorians, how about close all of Australia, close the airport and wait until everyone who wants it, receives the vaccine, those that don't want it, restrictions put in place until they are shown not to have any contamination.

It's not feasible to be lock downed, then lifted, only to be restricted once again, borders shut, then opened, it's not a cat, mouse situation and it only makes people annoyed both physically as well as emotionally.

If Australia was closed and borders locked, then when its time anyone could travel around Australia with no fear of getting this virus.

Geoff.

I am so sorry you have to do this again.It makes no sense at all. I live in the other dictator state, Queensland. While we have had our freedom the border crossing for interstate workers has been a nightmare. I get anxiety attacks all the time because I am scared they will shut it again. What has happened to the people of Victoria is abhorrent. There is no other word for it. Don't give in because this too shall pass. Remember each time you finish a lock down you are a stronger person because you made it through. Most of our family lives in Victoria. My nephew is in the city. He has MS and works at the casino. I worry for him and I haven't seen him for so long.I shall light a candle for all of you tonight and send you strength