From Coronavirus to the rise of the far-right to the impending financial collapse of humanity, it does somewhat feel like we're experiencing the series finale of humanity. It's been like living in a novel co-written by George R. R. Martin, George Orwell and Bill Hicks. And not in a fun way.
Unsurprisingly, the unique set of conditions created by these "uncertain times" (as it seems must be mentioned in every single email, just in case we hadn't noticed the slow-motion apocalypse that's been unfolding in front of us) has had an incredible impact on the mental wellbeing of so many people in so many difficult ways.
Be it being separated from family, seeing their jobs at risk due to economic consequences or those who have not been able to say a proper final goodbye to their loved ones, 2020 has unleashed an unrelenting series of toes to the baws with no respite in sight.
The mental health services, which have been torn to shreds along with the rest of the NHS, have been placed under further strain from this. They cannot properly provide for the number of people who require their services. They couldn't before. What chance had they now?
Pubs and cafes were re-opened before counselling and therapy sessions. Not to diminish the importance of the hospitality industry - which has also been force fed a shit sandwich at this time - but for so many these sessions are vital for their recovery and their wellbeing. It is ridiculous that not more has been done to address this issue. The government have abandoned this issue and have gone to chase an economy and a Brexit that appear to both already be irreparably damaged.
To compound this neglect even further, the only time a lot of people have seemed to give two shits about the mental wellbeing of others has been as a justification to lift some of the restrictions placed to help tackle Coronavirus. This selfish behaviour only serves to trivialise the plight of those who are struggling with their mental wellbeing, acting as if a couple of pints can cure depression, anxiety, BPD etc.
Yes, it is important to combat loneliness, and the hospitality industry will need support in the aftermath of this, but in terms of helping with people's mental wellbeing, there are far more immediate concerns. That the government has failed to address this shows that their approach to mental wellbeing is little more than lip service.
On the subject of the government's failings, the fact that the furlough scheme is due to come to an end at the end of October is ridiculous. In Germany it is guaranteed to cover a period of two years. In Ireland it is one year. In the UK, 8 months. At the same time we can't afford to support the arts, or give nurses and keyworkers a pay rise, but we can afford to give MPs a raise of £3,300 and to spend £120m on track and trace software than runs on Microsoft Excel 2003.
It has never been more obvious; the Tories do not give a fuck about anyone apart from themselves and their friends. And until they are either properly held to account or ousted from power nothing will change.
That is why it is more important than ever that we look after each other as well as ourselves. It is not enough to just say "open up" or "be kind" or any other such hashtags. If you can help someone then please do. If you want to help someone open up be someone they can open up to.
Selfishness and self-interest has helped drag us into the horrendous situation we are just now. It is time to realise the impact we have on the world around us. It is time to remind ourselves that there is such a thing as society.
Look after yourselves.
Love each other.
Fuck it and fight it.
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