Am I in a parallel universe?

[ohfourfoxache]

I just need to check that I’m not completely losing the plot

I am completely surrounded by people who think the govt are doing a good job and that they haven’t had any choice in how to manage Covid

I’ve been told tonight that, as long as “me and mine” are ok (includes me in the group) then they don’t care about anyone else. Capacity issues have been poo-pooed and the R rate is not important

Oh! And it’s ok that the mortality rate is going to have to go up because the economy can’t afford another lockdown to protect people

Am I missing something here? Is it just me? I’ve been looking at variants that affect the R rate and hospital capacity all day (don’t judge, I work in the NHS) and I’m shit scared. Am I just being unduly influenced by my profession?

Well, to a certain extent, yes, you are in a parallel universe, because you are presumably either seeing, or hearing very close up about the reality, but the longer people go on without knowing anyone who has become very ill, or even died from it, the less worried they are about it.
If you don't sit and pore over the news each day (and I 100% get people who got over load early on and now avoid the news) then the detail and understanding of the R-rate is easy to ignore.

Yes, you are influenced by your profession. (but in a good way). However, it is human nature to focus on what affects you, for most people.

Thanks @BackforGood for your reasoned response. You’re right - I’m seeing a lot of it and I’m not even “proper” front line. Where I am is sufficient!

I just can’t understand the “I’m alright Jack” mentality. I’ve never understood it, and now even less so.

How on earth do you get past it?

I think a lot of it might be bravado to a certain extent mixed with a genuine fear of job/business loss, but underneath they may well be shit scared too. And yes, if people aren't dwelling on the news then they're not hearing the horrible reality or will only hear what they want to hear. Depends where they're getting their news as well, especially social media.

I’m not an I’m alright Jack person but I don’t watch the news & I don’t follow covid very closely to be honest. I struggled with my mental health last lockdown as I had a baby in March & completely lost my support system. Therefore, I’ve chosen to put blinkers on & concentrate on my immediate family and living as happy a life as we can. We are young & not vulnerable so I’ve been out & about trying to give DD1 as good a childhood as I can. & I’m grateful for childcare bubbles allowing my parents to finally get to know DD2. I do 98% of things within the rules. I think SD is where I break the rules mostly, I probably could stand further apart from friends & family.

I know things aren’t good. If a lockdown is needed then OK. It makes me sad but again, so long as I can keep my family happy. DD1 going to nursery plays a huge part in that. It’s her favourite part of the week. I’ll be heartbroken for her if they close.