Looking after your mental wellbeing during COVID-19 pandemic – (Source: NHS, Mind, WHO)
The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means that life is changing for all of us for a while. It may cause you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, lonely or frustrated.
It’s important to remember it is OK to feel this way and that everyone reacts differently. Remember, this situation is temporary and, for most of us, these difficult feelings will pass.
There are some simple things you can do to help you take care of your mental health and wellbeing during times of uncertainty. Doing so will help you think clearly, and make sure you are able to look after yourself and those you care about.
- Taking breaks from and limiting watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. As Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Sticking to the facts and credible information about COVID-19 and understanding the actual risk to yourself and people you care about, can make an outbreak less stressful.
- Making time to unwind and relax. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Staying connected with others. Call or video chat with friends and family members. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. There are free helplines that offer listening and support for your mental wellbeing and NHS Talking Therapies
- Planning/having a new daily routine
- Building physical activity in your daily routineg. a walk outside, online exercise workouts, dancing to music, cleaning your home, can help to reduce stress, anxiety and low mood.
- Helping others with mental health problems. Click here to find out about top tips you can do.
For more information and tips on taking care of your mental wellbeing and reducing anxiety, see:
- Every Mind Matters: working from and staying at home and a personalised action plan, to help you feel more in control, deal with stress and anxiety, boost your mood and improve your sleep.
- The charity Mind
- PHE: Supporting mental wellbeing for adults and for children and young people.