Many blind and partially sighted people have faced anxiety, sadness and, even, fear about the unique challenges they have experienced since the pandemic reached the UK in March of last year.

In light of this, RNIB's Sight Loss Advice Service has worked with Mind, the mental health charity, to offer free emergency mental health sessions over the phone by BACP-registered counsellors with sight loss experience, to give emotional support during these difficult times.

Amanda Hawkins, RNIB's Specialist Lead for Counselling and Wellbeing spoke with Dr Mhairi Thurston, who is her herself vision impaired, about how the pandemic is affecting visually impaired people emotionally. 

If you are struggling with your mental wellbeing and would benefit from support just call the RNIB Helpline on: 0303 123 9999 or visit: Resources for mental wellbeing during coronavirus - RNIB - See differently