I’m a Keyworker!
Firstly, thank you and keep up the outstanding work. The solidarity I’ve seen as an NHS support worker (mental health services) has been truly amazing. More than ever we have each other’s backs, even when it seems we are more understaffed and underfunded than ever. Remember we are the ones who have the strength to keep the world turning in this crisis. As well as my day job, I wanted to help out by reminding you to look after yourselves during these times and giving you a few tips that have been helping me.
- We matter - Our lives revolve around making sure others are safe, but if we don’t look after ourselves during this pandemic, then many more lives could be lost. Make sure you have the PPE you need and make sure you’re shown how to wear it correctly. If you cannot get the correct PPE then you need to contact your union immediately. Recently the staff at a London NHS trust have protested over a lack of PPE and I commend them for it. We are not sacrificial! That’s the message the whole world needs to hear. Also, if you show any symptoms, isolate immediately. It’s only natural that we would want to stay and help, but this actually causes more harm than good.
- Talk to your colleagues - No one knows what you’re going through quite like these people. The team around me during my 13.5 hour shifts have done wonders keeping from falling apart. Even if it’s just to vent together it’s more beneficial than you’d think.
- Put your devices down - If like me you’ve been following the COVD-19 events unfolding, like the infection and death rates, it’s enough to start seeping into your nightmares. Facebook as usual is a hive of misinformation and negativity. I found it helpful to disconnect every few days. Spend the time you have talking to your family/friends or doing something where the news can’t disturb you for a few hours.
- Avoid NHS shopping times - Controversial, but this is based on my own experience in the area where I live. I have had absolutely no luck with these designated early times. I have found that if you work shifts, then you can use this to your advantage; go at weird times. Also my local Lidl (which has no specified times set aside) seems to be fully stocked on Monday mornings around 8am, with very little queueing. Shops like B&M and Home Bargains are practically empty (but well stocked) come about 3pm. If you work at an NHS hospital check and see if they are offering free food to staff; mine started last week.
- Take advantage of FREE - There are a selection of usually ‘pay for’ apps for improving your mental health, that are now free with an NHS email until the end of 2020. My personal favourites are Headspace and Unmind. It’s a brilliant time to get into mindfulness and meditation. If you have your phone on your breaks, then a 5 minute session will really help to clear your head and prepare you for the rest of the shift.
Once again I just want to thank you all. Not just the emergency services and NHS, but also the people keeping our shops stocked, delivering our mail and a huge shoutout to our local councils who are working tirelessly to ensure our communities stay safe.
OutofDarkness Xx
