During the last lockdown, we had the hope and promise of Christmas to look forward to. This lockdown, on the other hand, seems never-ending. The news has been largely negative, with January being our worst month so far in terms of COVID-19. It seems like everyone has struggled that little bit more this time around. So what can you do to help your mental health?
Focus on what you can control
With constant news of people breaking restrictions, the economic impact of the pandemic and everything third-wave-related, it can feel like everything is spinning out of control and it’s easy to get frustrated and anxious. Focus on the things in your life, no matter how small, that you can control. For example, your work, your routine, your relationship and your own behaviour.
Get outside
The days are starting to stretch and there’s that extra bit of daylight every evening. It can be easy to become a hermit between fear of the virus and the dark evenings. Make it a priority to put aside 20-30mins once you finish work to put on your shoes and go outside for a short walk. Even a short walk and some fresh air can make a huge difference. It clears your head, reduces stress and anxiety and helps you sleep better!
Reduce your intake of news
While it’s important to know what’s happening in the country and the world, it can be overwhelming seeing the news, especially news centred around COVID-19, constantly. It can easily start to weigh on you. Reduce how much you check news apps and social media. If you check these regularly on your phone, set time limits on each app to minimise the amount of time you consume news.
Take time for yourself
As work is now at home and we’re limited in what we can do, it’s harder to get away from work. Whether it’s working that little bit later to finish off a task or casually checking work emails outside of office hours, the lines between work and personal time have become blurred. This can lead to additional stress in an already stressful time. Take time to do something nice for yourself each day to fully unwind whether it’s going for a walk, reading a book, having a quiet cup of tea or catching up on your favourite podcast.
Think positive
With so much negativity, it’s easy to focus on the bad, but there’s plenty of positive to balance it out. Although it feels like it’s a lifetime since last March, there is an end in sight. Vaccines are being rolled out with encouraging studies being carried out around the globe. Spring is in the air so we’ll be welcoming in longer days where the weather is better and nature begins to bloom.
What are your top tips to help your mental health?
