Don’t let isolation break out into addiction or other mental health problems says Dr Zahid Chauhan

Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE is a local GP, health and social care campaigner, and champion of social justice and charity. His work mentoring and employing young people has won national recognition.

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Right about now, you could be experiencing a lockdown low.

You maybe miss visiting your extend family and your friends, the kids are exhibiting the symptoms of cabin fever and your inability to do all those things you loved – going to the cinema, the pub, or your place of worship – have been curtailed.

There is nothing wrong with feeling blue. They are called feelings because they are meant to be felt! Know that by making the sacrifice of staying indoors though, you are saving lives and we thank you for it.

But what happens if those moments of isolation and despair begin to get out of control? And what if you already have an underlying mental health condition, but are worried that you cannot connect with the health service because we are too busy?

I have said this many times before, but I place mental health on a par with physical illness. Usually, my surgery would have more than its fair share of patients for whom the pressure of debt and unemployment would have them spiralling into smoking, alcohol or food addictions, or serious conditions such as anxiety and depression.

These are not usual times.

Being on the frontline and treating Covid-19 patients, means I am not seeing these people anymore – rather hearing about them. And as well as the symptoms they are talking about (sleeplessness, lack of motivation, eating disorders) they are not attending counselling and are even struggling to access their medication.

Yes, the NHS is experiencing severe stress; but we never judge a patient and treat all fairly. Plus, that feeling of being out of control gives us a sense of empathy with every patient going through mental torment.

The first thing to say in terms of treatment, is that you should never feel guilty about the feelings you have. It doesn’t help and neither does people telling you to adopt a stiff upper lip or 'man up'.

Instead this is a time to remember your coping strategies and make sure you stay in touch with loved ones.

I don’t wish to be patronising or demeaning to any person or illness, but ensuring you exercise in accordance with Government guidelines, eat healthily and stick to a routine, all helps. The future may be uncertain but thinking mindfully about the here and now (rather than the bigger picture) is useful, too.

Relieve anxiety by getting your news from trusted sources. Don’t obsess over Coronavirus and whilst social media is a great tool to keep in touch, limit time online and pay no heed to scaremongering or tittle-tattle fake news.

Most of all, remember that your pharmacy is open, and that the NHS has a range of resources available including symptom guides from NHS Choices. And that a myriad of charitable organisations including MIND and The Samaritans can help.

Also know that while your GP is busy at present, your mental and physical health will always be in our minds and we will not desert you.