Your Mental Health During Lockdown

30 Apr Your Mental Health During Lockdown

Looking after you

During these current uncertain times it is probably fair to say that all are finding current circumstances testing but it is true to say that some will be finding it more than others. Not being able to go out freely, see loved ones and socialise has meant that some people have been left alone. The risk of us or our loved ones contracting the virus as well as the financial/economic implications caused by the virus may also add to pre existing anxiety. This can take it’s toll on our mental health and especially effect those already having to deal with mental health conditions.

So let us look at some ways to help us cope.

Avoid information overload:

Whilst it is important to listen to news regarding coronavirus developments, it is also important to have a break from it as well. Hearing constant updates on the amount of deaths and people contracting the coronavirus can lead to panic attacks and increase anxiety. It is better to choose a certain time to look at the news then once that broadcast/or article is finished look to occupy yourself with something else for the rest of the day.

It is also wise to determine whether your source is reliable, relevant and factual.

Be weary of social media:

Whilst it is a great way to keep on socialising, it is also an opportunity to pick up detrimental misinformation or polarising views.

What can be passed around as jokes between friends may be taken out of context by others. Opinions by certain people might be deemed as facts. Information can be distributed in order to fulfill agendas.

So like News broadcast limit your time and question the source of a post on social media relating to coronavirus and instead use social media to keep contact with friends and loved ones.

Take a break:

The government has said we can spend a period of each day going outside to exercise, therefore use this time to be amongst nature somewhere local and quiet such as a field or woodland area.

Develop a routine:

Having a to do list will break up the day and provide a sense of achievement. Having hobbies that you enjoy inside can provide a positive mindset.

Stay in contact:

One positive from this current situation is that people are more likely to be at home and available, so it is a good opportunity to contact friends and loved ones in order to build up and encourage whilst also being built up and encouraged, so use these opportunities to contact them regularly.

As we continue to understand the coronavirus we will become better at dealing with it, so in the meantime, all we can do is look after ourselves and be mindful of others, there will be times when will feel downtrodden and when we feel it is too much then must talk to someone.