Grab the Meic – I Can’t Stop Crying Because Of Covid-19

Azlan is struggling with his emotions during this difficult time of lockdown. He’s reached out to Grab the Meic for help as he can’t seem to stop crying. Here’s our advice.

Grab the Meic is your opportunity to ask us about anything that’s worrying you. We’re here to listen and give advice. If you want to #grabthemeic then check out this page, but remember this advice is not instant. If you need advice quickly then please contact the helpline.

This article is also available in Welsh – I ddarllen y cynnwys yma yn Gymraeg – clicia yma.

We have lots of articles with information and advice about Covid-19 – check them out here.

Hi Meic

I’m crying all the time. I just keep hearing about all the thousands of people dying and I can’t cope. Everything is just so bad at the minute. Can you help?

Azlan (*name changed to protect their identity)

Meic’s Advice

Thank you for contacting Meic. I’m sorry to hear that you’re struggling at the moment, and feel that you’re crying all the time. Looking for help is the right thing to do. It’s important to reach out to people, to communicate the way you’re feeling and to look for support.

Yes, there are a lot of people dying from Covid-19 at this time; it’s hard to escape this as it is all over social media and the news across the world. But it’s important to remember that there are many more thousands of people that are surviving this virus, and absolutely loads who only experience mild symptoms and don’t need to go to hospital.

Things to make you feel better

Crying is a good way to relieve stress, but there are also lots of things that you can do to help yourself with your feelings. Take a look at these ideas as a starting point:

• Limit the time you spend on social media or watching the news. The more you watch then the harder it is to get it out of your head – this isn’t good for your mental health at all.
• Talk to your friends and family. It might surprise you to hear that they might be feeling the same as you. You can support each other.
• Make sure you’re taking your one piece of exercise outdoors each day. Being outside can help with the way you’re feeling. Why not take your phone and start taking photos? You might find you have a talent for it and there are loads of great photography apps you can download.
• Try exercising at home or in the garden (if you have one). There are loads of different exercise apps you can download that cover all levels. Exercising releases endorphins that can help with lots of things, including reducing stress and making you feel happier.
• Do something you enjoy – listen to your favourite music, bust out your best dance moves, sing at the top of your voice, laugh loudly whilst watching your favourite comedy programme etc.
• Arrange group chats through video calls. Seeing other people, even through video chat, can be helpful when you’re feeling down. Why not try watching a film together through Netflix Party or hosting an online quiz (check for them on YouTube).
• Try to write down how you’re feeling, empty your head of all the things that are getting to you, and then rip it up. This is for your eyes only so it doesn’t matter what you write, it’s just a way of getting it out of your head. It’s worth trying!

Mental health and wellbeing help online

Take time to look through information that’s available online. There are lots of things that can help, including ideas for self-care during this time.

Mind – Coronavirus and your wellbeing

Young Minds – Looking after your mental health while self-isolating

The main thing to remember is that this time won’t last forever, but while it is happening, we need to look after ourselves in the best possible way. This won’t be easy, and you’ll have a lot of ups and downs, but read the tips and look at the help available. Don’t forget – you’re not alone in this.

If these feelings continue or you feel that your mental health is getting worse, then it might be an idea to contact your GP for support.

If you need further advice, then please contact the team here at the Meic helpline.

Take care of yourself.

The Meic team.

Call Meic

If you need to talk to someone about anything that’s bothering you, then call Meic to talk to a friendly advisor.

Meic is an information and advocacy helpline for children and young people aged 0-25 in Wales. We are open 8am to midnight, 7 days a week. You can contact us free on the phone (080880 23456), text message (84001) or online chat.