Isolation stories Since we first heard that strange new word ‘coronavirus’ all those months ago, many of us have seen our lives changed unimaginably, all within such a short space of time. Although we have all had to come to terms with our daily routines being turned upside down, shielding or self-isolating have undoubtedly been the most difficult aspects of these changes, across our community and beyond.
The Highlands Support Group on a Zoom call
For many people, shielding meant having to live without the people who matter most. It has often caused practical difficulties as well, especially around the simple things we have come to rely on, such as shopping and picking up prescriptions. Many people have had crucial appointments put on hold. Then there are all the little things that we seemed to take for granted in our normal lives, including the freedom of just getting out and about. Amazingly, we have found new ways to adapt, to keep busy and to stay in touch during these unprecedented times. We reached out to our community to find out what everyone has been getting up to over the past few months, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their stories of getting through this truly unbelievable experience.
Sara’s story “During lockdown, and especially whilst shielding, I’ve been feeling very isolated and missing my trips out for walks in the countryside. So as I couldn’t go to nature, I tried to bring nature to me! I’ve invested in a number of house plants (all with names of course!), which I’m using my time at home to care for. I usually end up killing plants as I’m not particularly green-fingered, but I’ve had a lot more time on my hands recently to research how best to care for them, as well as time just tending to them! I’ve also been out planting as many flowers and shrubs as I can in the garden, as well as tending to the ones already there. This has not only been great for my anxiety; but has also given me a different way to exercise, since I couldn’t leave the house. All in all, it’s been a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend my time in lockdown :)” Sara McAreavey
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