Looking after your mental health during COVID-19

COVID-19 has changed the way we live. To help keep us safe, it is likely that our lives will be different for a while longer.

Routines have been disrupted, jobs lost, economies crashed, and healthcare systems pushed to their absolute limits.

In times like these, fear, worry, and anxiety are understandable and perfectly normal responses to the ever-changing landscape and barrage of media coverage regarding the spread of the virus.

With that being the case, it can be difficult to stay on top of your feelings and wellbeing. Self-awareness and staying educated on ways to look after yourself are both important parts of keeping yourself healthy inside and out.

Ways to Cope

1. Manage your media exposure

While it is important to stay updated on current news and events, a constant stream of coverage may lead to feelings of fear, helplessness, and anxiety. Try to limit the hours you browse news coverage or set a specific time to read articles from reputable, accurate news outlets.

2. Be kind to your body

Staying physically active and eating well can help keep you physically healthy as well as boost your mood. Getting a good night’s sleep is also important to keep yourself at optimal health and wellbeing.

3. Stay connected

Being physically distanced doesn’t mean you have to be disconnected from the ones you love. Set up video calls, send a text, join an online group, or share a funny meme you found on social media. There are so many tools and applications you can use to connect or spend quality time with your loved ones.

4. Stick to a routine

Establishing a routine is vital to providing stability and structure to our days, especially in times of difficulty. Prioritising things you enjoy doing and separating ‘work and study time’ from ‘leisure’ can be vital in creating a healthy work-home balance when the physical barrier between them has been taken away.

5. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Helping someone who may be in a more difficult situation or may be more at risk can be a good way of helping your mental wellbeing while making a positive difference in someone else’s life. Reach out to people who may be more vulnerable such as the elderly family member or an immunocompromised friend who may be finding going out for essentials a daunting experience.

Likewise, it’s important to recognise that you may need help from time to time. It is important to know how you’re feeling and be able to talk about it with family and friends. You may find that they feel similarly and need support too.

Mental Health Support

If you feel anxious or depressed for extended periods, it may be wise to schedule an appointment with a GP, who is generally the first port of call for someone seeking advice on mental health. Our doctors are experienced in providing private and supportive care for our patients without discrimination or judgement. We have strong relationships with many local mental health care professionals including, psychologists, psychiatrists, and community support groups. Our GPs work alongside other healthcare professionals to achieve the best outcome for each patient, no matter their situation.