COVID-19: Protecting your Mental Health
Protecting your mental health and wellbeing throughout the Coronavirus Pandemic
Coronavirus has seen us all enter into a stage of uncertainty and with this in mind, there are measures we can take to stay calm. The news can be overwhelming, and this is having an effect on people’s mental health, so what can we do to keep our minds happy and healthy?
Being concerned about the news is understandable, but for many people it can make existing mental health problems worse.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS WE CAN TAKE TO HELP PROTECT OUR MENTAL HEALTH?
Try and limit the news and be careful what you read – not everything you see online is true. Having long periods away from news websites and social media can help to manage anxiety, stress or worries you may be feeling during this difficult time.
Reduce the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren’t making you feel better. Perhaps decide on a specific time to check in with the news and when you know it’s going to be coming from a reliable source.
Such reliable sources include the NHS website, information coming straight from the Government, Public Health England (PHE) and The World Health Organisation (WHO). Any news you watch on live television, make sure it’s from a professional source too – like the BBC.
Be careful and mindful about which accounts you tune into daily. Give yourself some peaceful, quiet time when you’re at home to escape the chaos.
Some social media specific key tips you can follow could include;
- Avoid clicking on Coronavirus hashtags
- Muting key words which might be triggering on Twitter and unfollow or mute accounts
- Muting WhatsApp groups and hiding Facebook posts and feeds if you find them too overwhelming
For individuals with OCD and types of anxiety, being constantly told to wash your hands can be especially difficult to hear. During this time, it’s important to wash your hands – but not excessively.
Many people are already in isolation, and it’s expected that others will follow. Rather than seeing it as a negative, turn it in to a positive – stay connected with people. Agree check-in times on a regular basis and feel connected to the people around you.
ISOLATION
If you’re self-isolating, strike a balance between having a routine and making sure each day has some variety.
It might end up actually feeling like quite a productive time away from the office and your normal working day. Rather than feeling like you’re ‘trapped’.
This pandemic doesn’t mean you should stop doing the things you normally would.
Remember to still exercise, eat well and stay hydrated.
How have you been affected by Coronavirus? Share your experiences or ask us any questions by emailing us info@nph-group.co.uk. We’re here to help.
For more help and support with your health and wellbeing concerns please call our main support line for advice on 0191 6053140
