Published on: 17th March 2020
Your mental health can change all the time, particularly under the current circumstances.
It’s normal to feel worried, stressed, anxious, irritable or helpless, but try to remember the experts and health professionals are working hard to keep people as safe as possible.
Here are ten tips to look after your wellbeing during this time:
Take a break
Make sure you take regular breaks when you need them, from social media, the news and also if you are working. It can be helpful to choose certain times to look for updates, so it isn’t constant and overwhelming.
Do something creative
Being creative can improve mood and self-esteem. A few suggestions could be painting, colouring, sculpting, writing, or playing an instrument. Click here for some art ideas to try.
Learn new skills online
Learning new skills can increase your confidence and help you to feel more optimistic. There are lots of online tutorials and resources to learn new skills or build on existing ones.
Value yourself and others
Spend time to reflect on what you’ve done well, show your appreciation to others, and take pride in any compliments you receive. Take a few minutes each day to thank someone.
Use food to boost your mood
What you can eat and drink can have a real influence on your mood, so look out for and choose healthy options. Remember that sugary foods can send your blood sugar soaring, and then bring it crashing down.
Keep in touch with friends and loved ones
Make sure you regularly connect with others, even by calling and messaging. Research has shown that people whose goals in life are focused on family, friends and colleagues have increased wellbeing. Click here for an easy read guide with ideas to stay connected.
Keep physically active
Exercise has been proven to lower levels of anxiety and depression, as well as improving fitness levels. There are lots of simple exercises and stretches you can do at home.
Take time for yourself
Set some time aside to do things you enjoy. This might be playing games, reading, exercising, speaking to others, or just having time to reflect.
Sleep well
The importance of sleep is well documented. Practice good ‘sleep hygiene’ by avoiding caffeinated drinks and alcohol, along with having some time away from mobile phones or tablets, before bed. Click here for a self-help guide on better sleep.
Ask for help and share feelings
If you feel under pressure and that your thoughts, or workload, are spiralling out of control - please take some time to discuss your feelings with friends, family, or work colleagues.
More helpful resources
- Self-help guides - our online guides cover a range of mental health problems and are available in different formats.
- Mind - coronavirus and your wellbeing
- Every Mind Matters – an NHS and Public Health England website with lots of information to support your mental health.