Self-isolation: Tips for mental wellbeing
Tips for mental wellbeing
Self isolation, social distancing, Coronavirus, death rates, COVID-19 and “Breaking News” – terms that are likely to induce anxiety, dread and frustration.
We wanted to create a safe space for you to come to get some inspiration on how to keep a healthy mind-set during this time of uncertainty.
Instead of focusing on what we can’t do, we have put together a selection of tips of what we can do to get us to the other side of self – isolation, with a sound mind and a positive attitude.
1. Keep in touch with friends and family
At times like this it is normal to feel anxious or confused; talk to family and friends you trust about how you are feeling. There are plenty of virtual ways you can keep in touch with family and friends; WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Zoom (an online video call tool), text message or email! You could agree to check-in with your friends at set times.
How about you arrange to do a quiz with your friends over video call or organise a Netflix Party and watch a new film with your friends online!
2. Be careful what read and watch
Limit how much you read or watch the news if you are finding it is making you anxious. Setting certain times where you check the news may help. If you need to, also reduce the amount of time you spend on social media – on Twitter you can mute key words to avoid seeing tweets that may make you more worried. Muting Facebook pages and WhatsApp group may help too.
There is lots of useful information about COVID-19 on the news and social media but there is also a lot of misinformation. Arm yourself with the facts; stick to government and NHS sources and reputable news sources (e.g. BBC) and don’t believe everything you see on social media.
3. Focus on things you can control
With strict regulations on activities you can do outside your home, you may be struggling with not being able to do your normal day-to-day activities. Try and shift your focus on not what you can’t do but what you can! Perhaps this is doing that deep clean of your house you’ve been putting off, doing an online photography course on Skillshare or updating your CV!
The app, Headspace, have made several features free so if you want to try meditation and movement exercises out give Headspace a try! It may also help you manage any worrying feeling you have at the moment.
4. Keep active
With most of us spending more time in our homes, keeping active has never been more important for both our mental and physical health! Luckily there are lots of free resources you can use to help you get moving. If you have kids at home, try doing Joe Wicks live PE lesson at 9am every weekday or Cosmic Kids Yoga!
There are loads of yoga and fitness videos on YouTube you can use – Yoga with Adrienne has a brilliant beginner’s series you could us if you’re new to yoga! Davina McCall has also made her fitness platform free for the 30 days; when you register you can create your own home exercise plan and choose from over 100 online classes ranging from dance and pilates to boxing!
Nike is also offering free workouts on its app. You’re also able to go outside to exercise by yourself or with the people you live with. You could go for a walk, try the NHS Couch to 5K plan or even grab a bike and go for a cycle.
5. Plan your day
It may help you feel more in control and reduce your anxiety to plan out your day. If you’re working from home, have a think about what you want to do after you finish work and how you’ll relax. If you are stressed and notice you’re reaching out for an alcoholic drink more often that you usually would, try and find an alcohol-free alternative – perhaps watch a new film with your mates or have a slice of cake!
You may want to track how much you are drinking – the DrinkCoach app will allow you do this and provide some tips on cutting down your drinking.
Some quick wins
There are also lots of small things you can focus on that will instantly promote a healthy mind set and keep your mind off of alcohol.
Looking to start a new career or find a new job?
Use your extra time to refresh and update your CV and have a look at some job specs. You’ll be doing something productive which will benefit you when life gets back to normal.
Refresh your home
Spring has sprung so now is the perfect time to deep clean your home. As well as having a clear out of old things you no longer use, it will give you an opportunity to clean and disinfect. Cleaning is also great exercise and good for mental health.
Is there a new skill you’ve always wanted to learn?
Marketing, entrepreneur skill, knitting, cooking – the online course world is your oyster. Use this opportunity to sign up for a free online course. A lot of course providers offer free trials so you have nothing to lose, and a lot to gain.
Goal setting
Having a goal and working towards it can keep your mind focused. Want to lose weight, start your own business or learn a new hobby? Now you have time to commit and work towards something positive.
Sun, sea, sand or snow?
A holiday may be the furthest thing from your mind right now but research your next holiday destination so you’re ready to book as soon as the travel ban is lifted. Having something to look forward to really improves your mood and mental health.
Plan, prep and cook
Create a weekly meal plan to use your food smartly, reduce waste and create delicious meals. Being stuck at home can be a killer for weight gain so try to cook healthy meals that nourish your mind and body.
And finally…
Remember It’s OK to ask for help
With everything that is going on, make sure you look after your mental wellbeing and health. If you’re struggling, do ask for help!
The NHS Every Mind Matters website will give you tailored tips and advice for you. If you need urgent help and support please contact the Samaritans on 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org; they are available 24/7.
If you need support with your drinking, the DrinkCoach website has some top tips on how you can reduce intake. If you’re registered with a service, make sure you stay in contact with them over the next few weeks and let them know how they can best support you.
If you’re not registered with a service find your local service here and Alcohol Change UK have put together a list of support that is available online or over the phone.
And remember, although the current situation is serious and can be worrying, there is always good news that can be found
Children at a Worchester school are keeping in touch with care home residents during the outbreak!
Air pollution is down across the UK
Over 250,000 people signed up to volunteer with the NHS in a single day
The anti-HIV drug PrEP will now be routinely available on the NHS
The planet healing itself! All over the world there are uplifting stories of wildlife thriving, blue skies, habitats flourishing and CO2 levels plummeting