In response to COVID-19 we are instructed not to visit medical centres; we are to call or email for advice. However, it would appear that, whilst we focus on the pandemic, our reporting of other medical issues to the NHS is in decline. In response to this. messages are being sent from doctors' surgeries and via the media; we're being encouraged not to ignore or to put off seeking medical advice for serious symptoms.
Whether the decline is because we feel COVID-19 is a priority and therefore don't want to take up NHS resources or because we are anxious that our condition may require hospital admission, and we fear that this will put us at risk, is unclear.
To what extent these concerns are based in reality is debatable. But something that stands out from all of this is the day-to-day anxiety we are all experiencing, which is different for each of us and has an impact on our well-being, at whatever level.
Something that stands out from all of this is the day-to-day anxiety we are all experiencing, which is different for each of us and has an impact on our well-being, at whatever level.
Just how many of us are ignoring signs that we need to attend to our mental health or put off seeking help during the pandemic?
Common thoughts may be:
No-one can see a counsellor face-to-face right now. I'll wait until this is all over.
Telephone and online counselling is what's on offer now. I'd prefer face-to-face.
What's the point of me seeking counselling for this? This is the new normal.
With everything's that happened, how can I afford counselling?
If it wasn't for the pandemic I think I'd be okay.
These are all valid thoughts and it is, of course, up to you whether or not you seek counselling. But take care that you're not allowing your mental health to become secondary. And remember, you may be able to find answers to the questions you're asking yourself by contacting a counsellor and making enquiries.
The following link and video may also be of help:
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