How COVID Lockdowns Changed My Priorities
By Steve
It’s April 2020, and Ireland is in the thick of its first COVID-19 lockdown. The weather’s been all over the place—one minute it’s sunny, the next it’s lashing rain. Typical Irish spring, really. But this time, it’s different. The streets are eerily quiet, the pubs are closed, and the only sound you hear is the occasional Garda car driving by, reminding us to stay home. For someone like me, who thrives on routine and social interaction, this has been a massive adjustment.
The Initial Shock
When the lockdown was announced, I’ll admit, I panicked a bit. Jenny and I were suddenly juggling work, homeschooling Sarah and Adam, and trying to keep the house from descending into chaos. My TRT routine, which I’ve been religiously following for years, felt like the only thing keeping me grounded. But even that was disrupted—getting my Sustanon injection became a logistical nightmare with clinics limiting access. It made me realise how much I rely on that weekly ritual to keep my mental and physical health in check.
Family Time, But Not as We Knew It
On the flip side, the lockdown forced us to slow down. No rushing to school drop-offs, no weekend matches for Adam, no birthday parties for Sarah. Instead, we had family movie nights, board games, and long walks around the estate. It was strange at first, but I started to appreciate the simplicity. Jenny and I even managed to sneak in a few date nights after the kids went to bed—something we hadn’t done in years.
Mental Health Check-In
Let’s be honest, though—it wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine. The isolation hit me harder than I expected. I’ve been open about my struggles with anxiety in the past, and being cooped up at home brought some of those feelings back. I found myself reaching for the Lexapro I thought I’d left behind. But this time, I was more aware of what I needed—whether it was a chat with my mate over Zoom, a solo run around the block, or just sitting down with Jenny to talk it out.
A New Perspective on Health
The lockdown also made me rethink my approach to health. With gyms closed, I had to get creative with home workouts. I dusted off the old dumbbells and started doing bodyweight exercises in the garden. It wasn’t the same as lifting heavy at the gym, but it kept me moving. And surprisingly, my testosterone levels stayed stable—proof that consistency matters more than the setting.
What’s Next?
As we navigate this new normal, I’ve realised that some of the changes brought on by the lockdown are worth keeping. Slowing down, spending more time with family, and being mindful of my mental health are priorities I don’t want to lose sight of. And while I’m looking forward to the day we can all gather in the pub again, I’m grateful for the lessons this strange time has taught me.
So, here’s to finding the silver linings in the chaos. Stay safe, lads.
