Improving the mental health, taking care of your mind as well as your body is more important than ever before.
One of the main enemies of our health is stress. Stress is the body’s response when it senses danger. We all experience stress and need it to function. But when stress interferes with our lives, it becomes a problem. Too much stress, for too long, can make us ill. If unaddressed, stress can cause physical and mental health issues like depression or anxiety and harm our physical health.
Some common sources of stress include:
Life changes
• Leaving home, getting married or having children
• Divorce or relationship breakdown
• Health scares or physical illness
• Accidents or bereavement
• Legal issues, arrest or imprisonment
Emotional
• Peer pressure
• Conflicting cultural values and beliefs
• Coping with uncertainty
Physical
• Late nights or lack of routine
• Poor diet
• Misuse of alcohol or drugs
Environmental
• Poor housing or accommodation problems
• Social isolation
• Unemployment
• Adjusting to new environments such as moving house or travel
• Financial pressures
Changes at work
• Starting a new job
• Coping with an increased workload or a promotion
• Poor relationships with colleagues or managers
• Redundancy or the fear of it
There are simple steps you can take to address your stress:
TRY:
• Get moving! Physical and mental health are connected — so eat well and exercise to release endorphins. Find a fun activity that suits you and your schedule.
• Setting aside time to have fun or indulge yourself – positive emotions can help build a buffer against stress.
• Learning a new skill – whether painting, playing guitar or a new language.
• Sharing how you’re feeling – it’s OK to ask for help and support.
• Switching off from distractions – make time for yourself as a regular part of your routine. Schedule a reminder if you need to.
AVOID:
• Overdoing it on sugar, caffeine or alcohol – they’re a quick fix which can increase stress in the long term.
• Overworking and checking your emails out of hours – we all need time to unwind.
• Spending too much of your free time in front of a screen — phone included.
• Don’t feel pressured to always be ‘doing’ something.
• Chasing perfection – it can create unrealistic expectations. Accept that mistakes will happen.
• Bottling up your feelings and assuming they will go away — this can make things worse in the long run.
Helpful resources
Public Health England – Guidance for the public on the mental health and wellbeing aspects of coronavirus (COVID-19)
Government advice on how to look after your mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
City Mental Health Alliance – Supporting colleagues
Resources to help organisations support their colleagues, including how to manage remote teams in challenging times.
Every Mind Matters – Coronavirus and wellbeing
Includes ten tips to help if you are worried about coronavirus, and advice on maintaining your wellbeing while staying at home.
Mental Health At Work – Coronavirus and isolation: supporting yourself and your colleagues
Mental Health At Work has grouped together resources to support one another’s mental health through the outbreak and through working remotely.
Mental Health Foundation – Looking after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak
Some tips to help you, your friends and your family to look after your mental health, including how to avoid rumour and speculation which can fuel anxiety.
Mind – Coronavirus and your wellbeing
Information including practical advice for staying at home, taking care of your mental
SOURCE: mhfaengland.org
