Mental health and lockdown

For some of us, being in lockdown, unable to go to work if you have been made redundant or recently furloughed is very difficult. Humans are species of habit, therefore when our daily routine gets snatched from us abruptly, it’s very easy to fall down the slippery slope of despair. This loss of routine can leave us feeling out of touch with our friends, colleagues and loved ones. Leaving us trapped in our own thought processes and emotions. It can be extremely difficult to lift yourself up when you’re no longer surrounded by that work colleague that made you laugh or a loved one who made you feel incredible.

Here are some tips that can help:

1. Guided mediations. These are incredible for being in the present moment and can help relieve stress and anxiety

2. Self Care. Remember to be kind to yourself during this difficult time, you may find yourself running around buying groceries for elderly relatives or just neglecting yourself a little bit. Give your self a pamper evening! Love yourself first!

3. Find a new hobby! Keeping yourself and your mind occupied is key.

- get stuck into a good book and escape from the real world for an hour or so

- puzzles (I know it sounds Granny like but they require focus and are actually enjoyable I promise!

-Exercise. Coach to 5k? Home yoga or Pilates? There are many options out there!

4. Keep in touch with loved ones! Through FaceTime, WhatsApp, iMessage and Social Media platforms! (Sometimes tagging someone in a funny video can brighten up their day)

5. Ask people how they are! Sounds simple right? However when we’re not feeling on top form, sometimes we can forget to check in with others. During a time like this it is esstenial to check in on others because you’ll be surprised how many of your closest friends may be struggling with their mental health at the moment also! You can support each other.

6. Support networks. If you don’t want to talk to a loved one, remember there are still some great charities that are open to help and give advice during this time!

- MIND, SAMARITANS, SANE

And finally...

Remember this is only temporary. I know it may seem relentless. However this is just a small portion of your life and all will be back to life as you know it soon! As Doru in Finding Nemo says: JUST KEP SWIMMING

You’ve got this!