SAGE ADVICE

I PICKED UP Psychologies on a whim for the first time yesterday and read it cover to cover in one sitting. It is rare to find a magazine that has such a balanced tone around mental wellbeing, avoiding the kind of toxic positivity that can ultimately do more harm than good.

Putting ourselves under pressure to always be positive, especially during a pandemic, is unrealistic! In particular, the ‘2021 life reset’ Dossier (February) came from a place of realism, while also providing constructive, encouraging advice. I look forward to next month’s issue. Emma

The Macmillan nurses and volunteers in the haemotology, cleaning and kitchen teams at University College London When I received my cancer diagnosis

during the first week of the first wave of the pandemic in April, I didn’t notice what was happening in the world. I was protected and shielded from all panic.

because my hospital room window wouldn’t open for fresh air due to protocol, you helped me assemble a fan.

When I cried When I couldn’t see anybody familiar

and was whisked off in an ambulance to begin treatment, you played Bob Marley music to make me smile. for three weeks, you popped in for chats about tattoos, parenting and life. you chatted about what we were watching on Netflix to distract me. and intense, you complimented me on the muscles in my legs and the hair that I managed to keep. additional treatment, you showed me uplifting videos of your children. you went out on your break and bought me the juice that I craved. you knocked on my door and offered me a magazine and treat from the volunteers’ trolley. and for being my extended family over the past nine months, thank you. I will remember you all in my heart forever.

When I was alone in a room When I had my first chemo, When my treatment was upped When I came in for When I couldn’t eat anything, When things went pear-shaped, For all this, Send your letters to letters@psychologies.co.uk