The constant news about the pandemic can feel overwhelming and with so much uncertainty around, it’s understandable that it can take its toll on your mental health. But there’s plenty you can do to support your mental health.
The World Health Organisation released advice on protecting your mental health during the outbreak.
Limit the news and be careful what you read:
Reading lots of news about coronavirus can make you feel more anxious. Limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren't making you feel better. Perhaps decide on a specific time to check in with the news. There is a lot of misinformation swirling around - stay informed by sticking to trusted sources of information such as government and NHS websites.Have breaks from social media and mute things which are triggering:
It’s understandable to feel compelled to keep up to date and find out more about coronavirus. It’s advisable to be careful about which accounts you follow. You can always unfollow or mute accounts on a temporary basis and turn off WhatsApp groups and hide Facebook posts and feeds if they’re becoming too overwhelming.
Wash your hands – but not excessively:
If you suffer with OCD or some types of anxiety, being constantly told to wash your hands can be tricky. Fear of contamination can often be a trigger for OCD so stick to the recommended length of time and points of the day.
Stay connected with people:
It’s a good time to ensure you have the right contact details of the people you care about and want to keep in touch with. You can agree regular check-in times and feel connected by regularly calling, skyping or using FaceTime.
Strike a balance: Finding a happy medium between having a routine and making sure each day has some variety if key. You may end up actually feeling like you’ve had quite a productive time whilst in isolation. You could work through your to-do list or read a book you’ve been meaning to get around to.
Avoid burnout:
It’s key to have down time over the coming weeks/months. Mind UK recommends continuing to access nature and sunlight wherever possible. Keep up the exercise, eat well and stay hydrated.
Anxiety UK suggests practising the ‘Apple’ technique to deal with anxiety and worries:
Acknowledge – Notice and acknowledge the uncertainty as it comes to mind.
Pause – Don’t react as you normally do. Don’t react at all. Pause and breathe.
Pull back – Tell yourself this is just the worry talking, and this apparent need for certainty is no helpful and not necessary. It is only a thought or feeling. Don’t believe everything you think. Thoughts are not statements or facts.
Let go – Let go of the thought or feeling. It will pass. You don’t have to respond to them. You might imagine them floating away in a bubble or cloud.
Explore - Explore the present moment, because right now, in this moment, all is well. Notice your breathing and the sensations of your breathing. Notice the ground beneath you. Look around and notice what you see, what you hear, what you can touch, what you can smell. Right now. Then shift your focus of attention to something else - on what you need to do, on what you were doing before you noticed the worry or do something else - mindfully with your full attention.
Look after yourself.
Helping you to continue living independently and confidently in your own home.
By providing a range of support at home, we’re helping many clients across Bath & North East Somerset and West Wiltshire retain their independence and stay in control in the comfort of their own homes.
Remember we’re always here if you want to chat about your care options. Just get in touch:
Call 0333 043 4880 or email enquiries@abneyandbaker.com