Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Hi, my name is Orshan53. I'm here because I have been ill with Long Covid for the last three years..I am also caring for my husband who has MS. We both support each other as best we can.

#MightyTogether

Hi, my name is blamemame. I'm looking for people who have been diagnosed with the skin disease (necrobiosis lipoidica). It is a horrible rash that looks like ringworms but grow and are raised/red and burn. This all started after I received the Covid vaccination. I am Italian decent and a healthy 64 year old woman. I exercise and eat well. when this started 3.5 years ago I had no idea what it could be so I saw my PCP who said it was a fungus (treated it with steroids and creams) but it didn’t get any better. so then I saw a dermatologist who really didn’t know so after a few months of trying certain meds they wanted to biopsy it. The rash was then growing and new spots were coming up all over my legs and arms. I ended up having another biopsy and they diagnosed it to be granuloma annulare. The physicians at that clinic had no experience with this so I seemed out another doc. I found one 4 hours from my home. I have been seeing him for 1 year. had 2 more biopsies to be diagnosed with the necrobiosis lipodica. have tried 3 different meds and 6 creams in the past year. Insurance never wants to approve and they are expensive. The latest issue is I’m loosing my hair. I would love to hear from anyone that has this disease and what they are doing to cope and deal with it. It truly is a depressing and mentally debilitating issue.

#MightyTogether

Hi, my name is RikRox. I haven’t been diagnosed officially there are more tests and appointments pending. However I can’t find anything else that covers all my symptoms. This all started after a serious bout of Covid 19. I have been to so many appointments and do not have any real answers. I have had three major falls that could have killed me. I am in constant pain that feels like my bones are aluminum foil and I am being crushed. My balance is awful and I walk like I’m 90 years old. The total body yawn freaks me out. These symptoms come and go except for the pain. I'm looking for people with similar situations because the doctors aren’t helping at this point.

#MightyTogether #MultipleSclerosis #PTSD #Depression #Anxiety #ADHD

podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/death-panel/id1444679141

**Mental Health: Understanding, Importance, and Solutions**

Mental health is an essential part of human well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act, and it also affects our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Yet, despite its importance, mental health has long been overlooked in many cultures and societies, often stigmatized and misunderstood. In recent years, however, the importance of mental health has gained wider recognition, prompting important conversations, research, and action. This essay explores the definition of mental health, the challenges individuals face in managing their mental health, and the ways to promote mental well-being in society.

### **Defining Mental Health**

Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It encompasses how individuals feel about themselves, how they relate to others, and how they cope with life’s challenges. Mental health affects every aspect of life, from the ability to work, build relationships, and lead a fulfilling life to handling crises or stressful situations. Good mental health is more than just the absence of mental illness—it is about thriving in all aspects of life, feeling balanced, and having a positive outlook on life.

Mental health issues, however, can emerge in various forms. Anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are just a few of the many conditions that fall under the category of mental illness. These conditions can significantly impact a person's quality of life and require medical treatment, therapy, and support. Mental health disorders are not limited to any particular group; they can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or socioeconomic status.

### **The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health**

Despite growing awareness, mental health is still surrounded by stigma in many parts of the world. People with mental health disorders often face prejudice, discrimination, and isolation, which can prevent them from seeking help or treatment. This stigma is rooted in historical misunderstandings and a lack of education about mental health. For decades, individuals struggling with mental illness were often viewed as weak, abnormal, or even dangerous. These harmful beliefs perpetuated feelings of shame and guilt among those suffering from mental health issues.

The stigma surrounding mental health can also be seen in the workplace, schools, and even within families. People are often reluctant to discuss their mental health struggles for fear of being judged, alienated, or seen as incapable. As a result, many individuals suffer in silence, which can worsen their symptoms and delay seeking help.

However, changing the narrative around mental health is possible. Public campaigns, advocacy groups, and increasing media coverage have played crucial roles in raising awareness and reducing stigma. Many high-profile individuals, including athletes, celebrities, and public figures, have openly discussed their own mental health struggles, helping to normalize these conversations. In fact, studies show that open discussions about mental health can promote understanding and support, helping individuals feel less isolated and more empowered to seek help.

### **The Impact of Mental Health on Society**

Mental health problems have a significant impact on individuals, families, communities, and societies at large. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and suicide rates continue to rise. Mental health disorders are associated with a wide range of negative outcomes, including substance abuse, unemployment, homelessness, and strained relationships.

In the workplace, mental health challenges can lead to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and burnout. Employees struggling with mental illness may experience difficulty concentrating, completing tasks, or interacting with coworkers, which affects both their performance and the overall workplace environment. On a larger scale, mental health issues place a considerable burden on healthcare systems, as individuals seek medical care for mental health-related problems, often in emergency settings, due to a lack of preventative care or early intervention.

Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to mental health challenges. In today’s fast-paced, high-pressure environment, many young people experience anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues at an alarming rate. The rise of social media has added another layer to these concerns, as young people often compare themselves to idealized images and experiences, leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. Early intervention and support for young people can help to mitigate the long-term effects of these challenges, enabling them to grow into resilient and mentally healthy adults.

### **Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Care**

One of the most significant barriers to mental health care is access. In many regions, especially in low-income or rural areas, mental health services are either underfunded, unavailable, or prohibitively expensive. Even in wealthier countries, the cost of mental health care can be a barrier for individuals who are uninsured or lack adequate health coverage. Therapy sessions, medication, and counseling can be costly, and for those without proper insurance, the cost can be a major deterrent to seeking help.

Additionally, there is often a shortage of mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, leading to long wait times for appointments. In some areas, individuals may have to wait months before they can access the care they need. This delay can be particularly dangerous for those with severe mental health issues, as it may increase the risk of self-harm or suicide.

Telehealth services, which became more widely available during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been a helpful solution for many people who face barriers to in-person care. Through virtual therapy sessions and online support groups, individuals can access care from the comfort of their homes, making it easier to seek help. While telehealth is not a perfect solution, it has been an important step toward improving access to mental health care.

### **Promoting Mental Well-being**

The good news is that mental health problems are treatable, and there are numerous ways to promote mental well-being, both individually and within communities. First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step toward healing. Whether it’s through therapy, medication, or support groups, there are many options for individuals to manage their mental health and regain control of their lives.

Just spent 3 months in the hospital for COVID, pneumonia, kidneys shutting down. Very dehydrated both August and September. Drs didn't think I'd walk away from the hospital. I beat DEATH.

Died many times in my early life cuz I was so fragile. But I beat DEATH.

Guess you gotta say ; she's a FIGHTER

1. Panic over health changes, test results. and treatment changes.. Feel hesitant about sharing fears with spouse because he already heard a brief bit of it last week and he also takes caref his 88 year old mum twice a week.

2a. Also both ourselves and our families are neurodidiverse including autism for ourselves, BPD among some of his family, and OCD, within my family and possibly Aspergers (sp?). Also cpstd from older generations, in both our families.

No we don't have family contact if we can help it. Family involvement can make it worse.

3. I was diagnosed in June 2021 luncaner with lung cancer in the lower right lobe, staged 4a or 4b. I was advised to get my affairs in order, but was put on a chemo regime. Had a delighted oncologist 6 weeks later ,as the regime was working at the time.

4. I've had scans of all types over 3.5 years, and genetic testing. Last year, some small Mets were detected and I was put back on infusions while staying on targresso ( oral, daily). I have had difficulty with infusions, usually dealing with brain fog and some incontinence(sorry). Last fall I experienced balance problems and had a few falls within my home. my mum-in -law lent me her rolling walkerto try out. I now own one.

Along with my cane collection.
The collection which I didn't use after falling backwards off my front step while trying to use my quad cane on Sept 10 of thisyear. My back is OK now, except for lost back and knee strength from resting on the futon bed without walking much.

However I became afraid of my body/balance and my house which is about my age. And is semisplit level.

5. My back and period wobbles were becoming my biggest over the cancer.
Then I had an MRI done on my head two or three weeks ago. My main oncologist's
Associate broke the news to us (he was the "onc" scheduled that day) that there appeared to be a lesion on the cerebellum. My poor husband was shaken.

6. Now,2-3bweeks before this news I was switched off tragresso to a new med just approved by FDA. It's formulated--along with a new infusion--to target mmy cancer and possible mets. By last Thursday he had called another prescription for a steroid to work on the lesion. He wants to see how this works before pushing on to radiation therapy. But he would like meto ge ta follow up MRI-- farther had that request in by Friday.

7. So far, the steroid seems to add tothe brain fog. I'm supposed to take it 3x a day with food , along with my nightly Paxil. On Saturday, my husband and I got our flu and covid vaccinessothat effect may have added to my fog and weekend panic.

8, Monday will be my first day on my own since the steroids (he tends to his mom on Monday and Thursday).I will attempt to work from home with brain fog. Tuesday is my next infusion at 8:45. (I forgot--Monday I get a blood draw at7:30am for my Tuesday infusion. )

9. i'm wiped out physically mentally emotionally and spiritualy.
Tuesday is the election for hell which I wanted to participate in--but I can't find my ballot. Following an infusionin the morning, I don't trust myself to fill out a provisional ballot.

We did find old paper work for the Dept of moto vehicles. So now I can get my cardp tags I should have ordered last month. What the hell, im afraid to drive myself. It barely matters.
Next week is a 3 day weekend. Maybe I'll get our taxes extension filed. Like I was supposed to last month. I hate ADHD. or AuHD. My brains and life and finances are falling apart. I don't have my funeral or will planned. I'm the one that does the bills,like my Mom did. I know how that turned out when she passed before my dad.

Oh and retirement. I had to wait until this year to retire and still retain my med benefits for my husband and I, Last week the college I work for announced that we a)l have to work on campus starting January. I replied on Wednesday this week that I wanted to retire. I wanted to use next 3 day weekend to work on retirement. After the lesion news of last Thursday--
I don't know .
My phaser is set to stunned.

Anyone got a prayer or a Saint or some juju. Because I'm out.