It’s okay to not be okay, there is help out there for you

I’ve talked openly about my mental health and it’s no secret that I have my ups and downs.

I’m looking for the light at the end of a tunnel that I’m the maker of, without having any control of the construction.

I know I’m meant to be here on a Saturday to give everyone a lift, and I will try to get back to that before the end of this column.

I don’t believe I’m alone in feeling how I do, this last year has had such a negative impact on us all, it’s no surprise that people are having a hard time, between lockdowns, furlough schemes, mixed messages and so many false dawns, by this point our collective mood is as low as it has been for years.

The full implications of our leaving the EU have yet to be really understood, and the sense of bitterness between people has become palpable.

We’re looking for someone or something to kick out against, and all we are seeing is each other.

It isn’t all bad news, the vaccine roll out seems to be gathering serious momentum, with an ever growing number of us having had our first jabs, I haven’t been invited yet, I hope to be as soon as possible but as I’m pretty much hunkered down here at home, I’m well prepared to wait my turn.

I’m being proactive though, I’ve been allowed some time by work, and offered as much support and help as I need, I don’t aim to be off for long, but I’m taking the help and I’m looking towards some kind of half-light, it’s faint right now but it’s growing.

I guess what I really want to say, is that I know its fine to not be ok. I have support and love out there in abundance, and for anyone else who feels as I do right now, you have it too, reach out, be prepared to talk, to let someone listen, to let someone in, I guarantee you, it will help.

*There are organisations that can help if you’re struggling with your mental health. Get in touch with The Samaritans on freephone 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org; or MIND at https://www.mind.org.uk