Like so many other businesses during this difficult time, we have been forced to furlough some of our staff. We are working incredibly hard as a team to ensure that we continue to deliver the great service expected from our clients, but we are also keeping in touch with the members of our team that are unable to work at the moment and keep a check-in on their mental health and wellbeing. We caught up with one of our Account Managers, Jen, to see how she is dealing with the pandemic and to raise awareness during Mental Health Awareness Week.
Catching up with Jen
How have you been doing since lockdown?
I feel a bit of everything really, some days I find can be quite tough, I’m not quite sure what to do with myself, I miss family and friends, but then other days I’m great! It can be a bit of an emotional rollercoaster though right?!
How do you cope with the tough days?
I have to tell myself that it is just another day and I’ll likely feel better in the morning. I think it is important to allow myself to feel sad or stressed, and just take time out if I need it rather than bottling it up. I talk with my partner, call my friends, call my sister and mum, and watch some garbage TV. When I’m going to sleep I tell myself that I’ve allowed myself my down day, so tomorrow it’s time to get stuff done – does anyone else have conversations with themselves in their head!? Ha!
How do you pass the time?
I’m actually lucky that I’ve recently started a marketing diploma so that does give me some work I can do. Don’t be fooled though – since the outbreak I lost all of my motivation and have only recently revisited it.
I live by the coast and I’ve got into beach foraging, using my daily allowance of exercise to pick mussels for dinner which has let my inner child out – we are looking forward to expanding this into fishing now the lockdown has eased slightly – we will see!
What are you most looking forward to when lockdown is over?
Seeing people again of course! We like to plan what we are going to do when this is over – we are hoping to have a giant birthday party (one day) to celebrate everybody’s birthday on one unspecific date in the future.
What are you grateful for?
I’m very grateful to have an incredible support network that is also really understanding of me. They talk and support me when I need it and then give me some space when I need that too.
I’m also super grateful to be by the sea and have stunning views every time I want to stretch my legs.
What advice do you have for anyone struggling during the lockdown?
Be kind to yourselves! It’s such a difficult and stressful time for everyone right now, regardless of circumstance. Don’t compare yourselves to anybody else, and if you need a day in bed, then do it! Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, don’t compare your struggles against anyone else, and don’t feel guilty for what you feel!