Talking about Mental Health
Tina suffers from anxiety which has got worse during the COVID-19 pandemic. She talks to her friend, Jane, about it on the phone...
Jane: Hi Tina, How are you?
Tina: I’m not well, Jane... I’m terrified of catching the virus and I don’t want to leave my house. I can’t relax at all. My anxiety is making it worse for everyone. I’ve been cleaning and washing my hands constantly and I’ve been showering three times every day too.
Jane: That’s quite worrying, Tina. Of course, good hygiene is extremely important at the minute, but that’s too much I think.
Tina: I know, and I’m aware that I have a problem. İ just can’t control my behaviour.
Jane: I think you need a change. Do you want to go out for a walk?
Tina: Mm... I don’t know if that’s a good idea... I haven’t been out for about two months now.
Jane: You must be joking, Tina! If you’re cautious and wear your mask, stick to the social distancing rules and you’re careful with your hygiene, there’s nothing to worry about.
Tina: I know, but...
Jane: I don’t want to hear any excuses! I’m going to meet you at the beach in half an hour. Get dressed and come quickly!
Tina: OK... I suppose I’ll see you there...
PHRASAL VERBS
Phrasal verb | Meaning | Example sentence | Categories |
|---|---|---|---|
To let down someone | To make someone disappointed when you have not fulfilled a promise. | She promised that she would be there but she let me down. | Feelings |
To break down | 1. To become very upset. 2. When something stops working | 1. She broke down when she opened her results. 2. The lift broke down. | Feelings |
To bring somebody/something down | 1. To make someone lose their powerful position. 2. To make something end. | 1. He brought his boss down by exposing personal emails. 2. The rise in export prices could bring the hospitality industry down. | Feelings |
To bottle something up | To refuse to talk about things when someone is worried or upset. | After his father passed away, he bottled his emotions up and wouldn’t talk to anyone. | Feelings |
To get something across | To make someone believe or understand something | He tried to get his point across but his manager wouldn’t listen. | Feelings |