Don’t give up

Even though restrictions are easing, there’s still a long road ahead. With patience stretched, it’s easy to write off the past few months.

Please don’t.

However agonising, you’ve gained knowledge – not least that you’re able to cope with sudden catastrophic change more effectively than you’d ever imagined.

Make two lists. First, write down all the things you can do now, or do better, than you could six months ago.

You probably have more online skills. You may have learnt to grow your own produce, and cook decent meals despite a restricted list of ingredients. If you’re a parent, you know new ways to entertain and educate your children.

Second, make a note of friends you’re in touch with again, relationships that may have lapsed but are now revived.

Keep these lists handy, so you can reread them when the going feels tough.