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The pandemic and lockdown measures have messed with our mental health. This is the next societal crisis, compounded by the squeeze on family finances.

The surge in cases of depression and anxiety are now putting significant pressures on health services, much as the virus did. Most of us are just going to have to ride it out.

As for our kids: we’re just going to have to do whatever we can to create an environment in which they feel calm and supported. Adolescence is hard enough at the best of times.

I know I’m not on top-form myself. From a rational perspective, I know I have little to grumble about. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I’m moderately fit. I own my home, I have a sustainable income and sound relationships.

And yet here I am: demotivated and socially anxious. Much to our kids’ amusement, I’ve had a couple of meltdowns too. Alarming to those around me, more used to the calm man in their midst.

I have much to be grateful for. I know my anxiety and blues make no rational sense whatsoever. There are people out there dealing with real issues: family break-up, raising children as lone parents, financial worries, poverty, illness, mourning, isolation. For many, these are horrendous times.

Psychological wellbeing can be difficult to manage even in normal circumstances. I have ups and downs. Sometimes I’m full of positivity, believing I’m on the verge of turning everything around. The next moment — well, my blog reveals all.

Most of us with low-level issues are just going to have to ride out this storm. To focus on what brings us happiness. To get out into nature more. To meet with friends. To selectively delve into the treasuries of our faith. To recall positive memories. To listen and be listened to.

Somehow, we’ll need to find our own ways to mend our messed up minds.