LOCKDOWN wasn’t simple and coming out of it won’t be easy either.

Some challenged by the isolation will find the change hard to cope with.

I know I’m finding returning to London daunting – the size and scale of it, a marked contrast to where I’ve been these last three months.

But for others suffering from anxiety or depression it may be even harder, even if only venturing out where they stay.

It’s why advice and counselling are available for those who may feel a bit overwhelmed, even with the warmer weather enticing us out.

That’s perfectly understandable and as with those who’ve been troubled by lockdown, help is there.

Moreover, all of us need to look out for those who’re finding it all a bit much.

Together though, we’ll make it through.

Other issues sadly are also arising, not least unemployment.

Furloughing has either been unable to save some businesses or simply masked the closure of others. It’s a tragedy for all involved and it’s in all sectors, and in both large and small firms.

The most recent figures showed a slight increase but much worse is likely to come.

Those of us who lived through the mass redundancies of the 1980s know the hardship it can cause and the social consequences that can follow.

East Lothian still bears the scars from the pit closures and other businesses shut back then. Depression, along with alcohol and drug abuse, took root. It’s why every effort must go into saving businesses and keeping people in work.

Some sectors probably still won’t be able to open in October, which is why the furloughing scheme should continue, as is happening in France.

Funds should be put in to keep businesses afloat until they can make it themselves. Additionally, investment in projects such as building schools, houses and other public works is required.

To do that, the Scottish Government needs to be able to borrow. At the moment it can’t even borrow as much as the smallest council. That must change as these projects and jobs improve our communities and keep folk off the dole.