#BehindTheMask: We open up about our mental health during lockdown

We've lived through one of the most difficult and disrupted years in more than a generation, so it's no surprise it's had an impact on our physical, as well as mental, health.

Now we're looking #BehindTheMask to discuss how we've coped emotionally through the pandemic.

We're sharing stories of those who've experienced it from different angles, backgrounds and locations to open up the conversation about mental health.

Caitlin Donlevy's a staff nurse at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. She was moved to a Covid ward in the first wave and told us how she watched colleagues die.

Caitlin said: "One of the biggest challenges has been not only losing patients but also losing friends and colleagues. This has been extremely tough for everyone. Not only families but working in the hospital knowing we've lost friends and family has been really hard to deal with.

"During the first wave it was new to everyone and we were constantly learning new things about how the virus works and clinical guidance was changing all the time in regards to the treatment and also about PPE and although we do know a lot more now we're still learning every day and we're having to work hard to keep on top of what the latest is.

"I caught Covid in October and I'm still struggling with some of the side affects now and the hospitals now are running with more patients and less staff because of a lot of staff sickness from Covid.

"Because visitors haven't been allowed in the ward we've had to find new ways to keep patients in touch with their families and this has involved a lot more phone calls and things to families and FaceTime calls using the ward's iPad which has ctually been really good for our patients.

"The vaccine gives us light and the long of a very, very logn time. I'm really hopeful they'll keep getting rolled out and give us some sense of normal life back and ease things within the hospitals as well."

WATCH: NHS Dr Tushar Dixit opens up about his experiences for #BehindTheMask

New figures released on Time to Talk Day (4th February) show that mental health is still taboo when it comes to taking time out. A survey of over 4,700 people revealed that nearly half of us (44%) have felt the need to take time off work, school, or university due to a mental health problem during the pandemic.

Worryingly, despite so many recognising a need to take time out, only 17% actually did so. When respondents were asked why they did not take time off, the answers pointed to mental health stigma: 27% said they were too embarrassed; 25% said they worried they would be judged; and 24% said they thought it would risk their future prospects, for instance losing their job.

It's Time to Talk about mental health

Further results from the survey showed that, of those people who struggled with their mental health during the pandemic, a simple message of support from a colleague, friend or family member made all the difference.

Over 2 in 5 (42%) said someone reaching out made them feel reassured they weren’t alone; 32% said they were comforted that there was someone to listen; and 28% said it made them feel they could seek help.

Time to Talk Day 2021 adopts the theme ‘The Power of Small’, which aims to showcase the big difference these seemingly small conversations or gestures can make.

WATCH: Jo Loughran from Time To Talk Day speaks to Mick Coyle about opening up about your feelings

Jo Loughran, Director of Time to Change, said “We know that attitudes towards those of us with mental health problems have improved in recent years and it’s important that we don’t let that slide. The last year has been hard and it’s perhaps made more people realise that we can all struggle with our mental health at times. Let’s take this opportunity to ensure that we all feel comfortable talking about it, too.

“It’s easy to think we haven’t got the power to make a change. But lots of ‘small’ conversations can add up to a big difference in tackling the stigma and discrimination too many people still experience because of their mental health. So, this Time to Talk Day, play your part - send a text, reach out, have a conversation.”

How to talk about mental health with a friend, colleague or family member

Here are some tips about how to bring up mental health in every day conversation:

1. Ask questions and listen; “How does it affect you?” or “What does it feel like?”

2. Think about the time and place; sometimes it’s easier to talk side-by-side. Try chatting while doing something else, like walking.

3. Don’t try and fix it; resist the urge to offer quick fixes, often listening is enough.

Can I get involved in #BehindTheMask?

Of course. Share your feelings on social media, and use the hashtag #BehindTheMask so you can see other people sharing their stories.

Some people are comfortable sharing a video, like Dr Tushar above, other will prefer text, emojis or a gif.

If you want to film a video, film in landscape selfie mode. If you want to remove your mask at the start before you introduce yourself, ensure you're in a safe space, following all safety guidelines.

Where can I get more support for my mental health?

Speak to your GP - they are trained to recognise mental health issues, just as they are physical.

Find mental health services where you are by visiting the Hub of Hope

Find out more about Time To Talk Day and access their resources here

• #behindthemask