Mentally well beings

From natural disasters to a global pandemic, 2020 has so far proven to be a challenging year for everyone. Here are some tips to keep mentally well during this time.

From floods and bushfires that started the year in the UK and Australia, to the COVID-19 situation that has swept the world – there’s no doubt we’ve all experienced changes to our work and home-life patterns this year.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to make an impact, it is normal to feel a wide range of emotions including stress and anxiety.

Over time however, as different measures are introduced which change the level of impact the coronavirus is having on day to day life, the World Health Organisation (WHO) say levels of loneliness, depression, harmful alcohol and drug use, and self-harm may rise.

Tips for keeping mentally healthy

1. Stay connected – It is normal to feel sad, stressed, confused, scared or angry during a crisis. Talk to people you trust and regularly keep in touch with your friends and family by phone or email.
2. Maintain your physical health – If you must stay at home, maintain a healthy diet, get good quality sleep and exercise regularly.
3. Don’t use smoking, alcohol or other drugs to deal with your emotions and any difficulties you are experiencing – If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust. You can also contact a counsellor or your doctor. Have the relevant details for the people and support you would go to somewhere that is easily accessible. Have this prepared now when you are feeling well so that when you do need to seek help, the required information is readily available.
5. Limit the time -you and your family spend watching or listening to media coverage that is upsetting.

Source: WHO

Digital tools for mental wellbeing

At a time of social distancing measures, digital technology is not only helping us keep connected, it can also help us to manage the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our mental health and wellbeing.

There are a number of resources and materials available online and it can be overwhelming trying to navigate and select something to try. Headspace is a leading mindfulness and meditation app that can help people manage their mental health, anxiety and stress during this unprecedented time.

Headspace

Headspace offers some free guided meditations and other resources for work and education.

It has recently launched a new and free range of resources for New Yorkers, but has extended the free access to anyone, regardless of where they live.