Mental health and wellbeing resources
Here are some practical tips inspired by Mind’s “Coronavirus and Your Wellbeing” article www.bit.ly/MindCOVID19 to help you on a day-to-day basis.
Loneliness
– Put extra pictures up of the people you care about to remind you of them
– Listen to a chatty radio station or podcast if your home feels too quiet
– Call/Facetime/Skype rather than just texting; it feels more human
Anxiousness
– Try and plan a safe space in your home you can go to retreat
– Practice deep breathing exercises, yoga, mindfulness and meditation
– Listen to ‘gentle’ music that is structured and melodic
– Consider limiting social media use and rely only on verified sources to keep you updated with the latest news.
Exercise
– There are thousands of dance routines to be mastered on YouTube
– Equipment-free fitness workouts can often be found online, free of charge
– Walk around the garden, if you have one. The sunlight helps, too
– Something as simple as walking the stairs can release endorphins
Boredom
– Try having a clear out, both digital and physical
– Spring clean your home! Perhaps Mrs Hinch could offer some tips
– Organise your photo albums. Let the nostalgia roam free
– Learn a new skill; whether that be a language, instrument or game
– Read a book, start a diary, reconnect with old friends, board games
Working from Home
– If possible, create a dedicated work station away from the rest of the house
– Take regular, timed breaks in order to remain productive
– Work when you feel most productive rather than your normal working hours
– Don’t overwork yourself; your health is far more important
Keep Your Mind Stimulated
– Playing strategy and video games can give you something to focus on
– FutureLearn and OpenLearn have free online courses you could try
– Watch that series that all your friends have recommended for months
– Plan future holidays. Studies suggest the simple act of planning a holiday
can boost happiness!
Food and Drink
– Cook meals you wouldn’t normally have the time to make
– Eating healthily can do wonders for your mental health too
– Beware of your alcohol consumption and its impact on the whole family
Arguing and Confrontation
– It isn’t anyone’s fault this situation has arisen, so go easy on each other
– Set, and more importantly, respect each other’s boundaries
– Find individual hobbies and interests away from your family/partner
– Define roles and encourage everyone to ‘chip in’ and play their part
Money
– The best tool for anyone facing money issues is Citizens Advice
– If you are unable to meet your debts, get in touch with the company as soon as possible. They may give you some leeway
– Cancel little-used subscriptions and outgoings. Every saving helps
The News
– Ignore all unverified claims and conspiracy theories
– Beware of scammers looking to steal your money
– Rely only on Government and Public Health England advice
Every Mind Matters
Public Health England have launched their campaign to encourage adults to take steps to look after their mental health, using Every Mind Matters and its self-care resources. The Every Mind Matters platform covers mental health guidance and provides content to help people look after their mental and physical health.
Find out more on their website
Useful Numbers
NHS Non-Emergency number: 111
For mental health advice, please visit Mind: www.bit.ly/MindCOVID19
For advice regarding money, debt, employment and housing: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
If you need someone to talk to, the Samaritans will listen
www.samaritans.org or call 116 123
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
24-hour freephone, 0808 2000 247
www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk
For the latest news: www.bbc.co.uk/news
For the latest Government advice regarding coronavirus: www.bit.ly/PublicHealthEngland2020
HMRC helpline for the self employed and businesses: www.gov.uk/business-support-helpline 0300 456 3565
For local support with food and supplies:
Royston Food Bank at Royston Evangelical Church from 9-11am, Weds & Sat, or you can donate food & supplies to the Food Bank at McColl’s and the Roman Catholic Church as well as at Royston Evangelical Church
More resources
