I hear how so many people in lockdown are struggling without work and a sense of purpose. That their mental health is affected by not being able to contribute. That this is leading to depression. And I understand exactly how that feels, but for a different reason.
I am an asylum seeker and have lived in this country for 6 years. Because I am an asylum seeker, I do not have the right to work, even thought I want to contribute.
I understand how people are feeling now in lockdown, because it is how I have felt for all these years.
Being able to contribute to society, feeling involved, that is so important for your mental health. My children can go to school here, I have a grandchild born here, but I am limited in my potential and in my life. I am limited in moving forward, and am living with the effect that has on me.
I hope others understand now something of how it feels to be in the asylum process, because now they have felt it too in their lockdown experience.
