I’ve been in self isolation with my boyfriend, Nick, for nearly two weeks now. It’s been pretty boring and I thought it might be useful to write about my experience as I know many others are going through the same thing.
Boredom
I am pretty bored at home. Despite having things to do (I am writing a book), I am lacking the motivation despite having so much spare time. It seems the less I do, the less I want to do. I am sleeping more than usual and being a bit sedentary.
Worry
I have an underlying health condition and although I don’t have corona virus, the care for my condition (Cystic Fibrosis) is now non-existant. All appointments have been cancelled and phone appointments have been offered instead. I was due to go for a blood test as one of the drugs I am on has caused liver problems. This blood test has been cancelled and I have the added worry that my liver is being pickled by the drugs I am taking. There is no obvious way of telling without a blood test. No upcoming appointments have been made either so we have all been left in a limbo. I am hoping that I am able to stay well – I am more concerned about my Cystic Fibrosis worsening as there are no treatment options available. On top of that, usually when I get a lung infection, I need to have intravenous drugs.
The last lot of IV drugs I had caused a blood clot in my left arm and that artery can no longer be used. Four years ago an IV line blocked the artery in my right arm so currently I have no access options should I get a chest infection. Again this has been put on hold and will only be addressed should I get a chest infection and need access. It’s all a bit worrying really…
The media
I keep watching the news even though I realise this is raising my alarm and paranoia. I am trying to watch other things now and reduce my news consumption as I don’t think it is helpful.
Keeping busy
I am staying with my boyfriend in a quaint village in Surrey. There are 5 swans in the village (three are cygnets) and I have become quite attached to a swan that we have named Solo. He/she has been chased away by it’s parents (normal apparently) but he/she has been left on it’s own and is chased away by the other two siblings. Poor little thing seems very lonely and as I have more time on my hands this has become a worry now!
Anyone know much about swans?
Self care
Now, more than ever, self care should be a priority plus we have the time to look after ourselves more. I have been promising myself that I will go on You Tube and find a begginers exercise routine. I am hoping to do some exercise after finishing this post. I HATE exercise but I need to do something to maintain my sanity and I know if I get fatter it will affect my mental health. I am quite self critical anyway so I need to try and balance the self care.
I have been putting moisturiser on my face- something I rarely do. I am pretty slack really when it comes to skin care and often don’t even remove my make up at night..tut tut
So, I am hoping to lose a bit of weight. My hair is looking dodgy and I have even had a go at chopping some layers in it myself as it is looking long and heavy and generally yuck…at least it’s clean though
I hope you are all managing at home. I have been thinking of buying a puzzle…can’t remember the last time I finished a puzzle. Would love to know what you are all doing to keep busy. I have been amazed at how many people are finding creative resourceful ways to keep themselves stimulated.
Updates to follow regularly.
Mandy X
PS. the main picture is the view from the lounge (where I am typing this now)
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
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