Here’s the thing. Years and years of fake news and sensationalist journalism and people panicking over dumb shit on Twitter made me think everyone was overreacting about Coronavirus and that I just needed to be cautious and sensible when going out. Unfortunately, I was wrong.
Living in the UK, where nothing was being done about it, reinforced my belief that it wasn’t a big deal. But I’ve since remembered that the UK government are absolute idiots, so that argument doesn’t work anymore. I mean we’re talking about Boris fucking Johnson here.
Also, as someone with anxiety, I have to filter the news a little bit, and take it in small doses and with a large pinch of salt. So I don’t have a ton of news apps on my phone and wasn’t seeing the full extent of the crisis elsewhere. However, I was quietly keeping an eye on it.
What changed my mind was calling home and speaking to my mother who was self isolating and was SHOCKED that I’d just been to a film premiere. Once I saw the measures Ireland was taking, shit got real, because the Irish are a sound bunch altogether and we don’t fuck about. 
Now, my coping mechanism in a crisis is to gather information. Handy! So, I started reading as much non sensationalist material on #COVIDー19 as I could. Including scientific studies and updates from people on the ground in countries already on lockdown, like this one from Italy.
Everything I read pointed to the following:
1. #COVIDー19 is not “just a flu” - it’s more contagious, the death rate is 10-20 times higher and it can leave lasting damage
2. High risk people are at very high risk
3. It’s happening whether we like it or not
sciencealert.com/the-new-corona…
1. #COVIDー19 is not “just a flu” - it’s more contagious, the death rate is 10-20 times higher and it can leave lasting damage
2. High risk people are at very high risk
3. It’s happening whether we like it or not
sciencealert.com/the-new-corona…
The other thing I learned is that the virus itself isn’t the problem. The problem is everyone getting it at the same time and not being able to get the care we need because our hospitals are overwhelmed and unable to cope. But we can help avoid that.
washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/…
washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/…
We need to practice social distancing. Here’s a good thread that explains it but basically it’s staying at home whenever possible and avoiding large gatherings of people and contact with individuals outside your family unit for a while. That’s all. It’s simple but it saves lives.
One thing I was right about is that panicking does not help. It leads to people hoarding food and medical supplies and leaving vulnerable people in an even more vulnerable position. So chill the fuck out please. Get what you need for yourself and go home.
It’s a very confusing time. Some friends and family you speak to will think it’s all just scaremongering. Some will be panic buying toilet roll. If you’re feeling anxious or unsure, check out @MindCharity’s website for some guidance, and consider donating.
mind.org.uk/information-su…
mind.org.uk/information-su…
This is also a very helpful thread.
Follow @YoungMindsUK on Twitter for more practical updates, advice and support.
Follow @YoungMindsUK on Twitter for more practical updates, advice and support.
Here’s an article full of tips for staying physically and mentally well while self isolating.
happiful.com/coronavirus-wa…
happiful.com/coronavirus-wa…
Some wonderful advice here, especially for people with anxiety and OCD, on how to manage the influx of information on #COVIDー19 in the news and on social media. Also how to cope with being home alone.
bbc.co.uk/news/health-51…
bbc.co.uk/news/health-51…
I know a lot of us are worried we’re overreacting by self isolating, but I’d rather risk looking a bit silly and missing a few events than contracting and spreading a virus that can kill people. When you put it that way, the choice to remain home seems pretty easy and obvious.
A very easy to understand visual aid on why we all need to #StayHome
I’ll update this thread if needs be but I’ve said all I wanna say for now. Hopefully it helps you!
I’m gonna get off Twitter for a bit. I suggest you do the same and set designated times to check news & social media instead of scrolling all day.
Keep calm. Stay home. Be kind ❤️
I’m gonna get off Twitter for a bit. I suggest you do the same and set designated times to check news & social media instead of scrolling all day.
Keep calm. Stay home. Be kind ❤️
I use the @calm app a lot for meditations, sleep stories, music and soundscapes and I follow their feed for regular reminders on how to stay calm and grounded. Finding this extra helpful at the moment so maybe follow them or try out the app yourself 💙
For anyone looking for ways to help others get through this crisis 💚
