5 Tips For Looking After Your Mental Health As Rules Are Eased
As lockdown rules begin to lift across the UK, it is not uncommon to feel anxious or nervous about life changing. Many of us have felt these feelings throughout the whole of the pandemic and it is totally normal.
We believe it is important to take care of your mental health so we wanted to share some tips to help if you are feeling anxious about the world and the lockdown restrictions lifting.
1. Talk to someone you trust
Talking to someone about how you feel really can get things off your mind or at least help you to understand your feelings better. Consider talking to a friend, family member, GP or calling a service like those listed here by the charity Mind
2. Go for a walk or do some light exercise
Exercise is great for helping with low moods and clearing your mind. Even taking a light 5 minute stroll will be beneficial. Our team will tune into a podcast, listen to some music or enjoy the sounds of the world around them on their walks. Even consider joining a yoga or meditation class. Our wonderful colleague Beth is a qualified Meditation teacher, her classes help people to relieve stress and anxiety everyday.
3. Limit the amount of news you are reading or listening to
When you are already feeling anxious about the things going on in the world, limiting the amount of exposure you have to news reports can help. You can still keep up-to-date with current affairs, however, try doing so in smaller amounts or when you feel like you are in a good headspace to. Also consider using new sources that only show positive stories like from Positive.News or Good News Shared
4. Go at your own pace
You may feel like you have to rush out as restrictions begin to lift but you do not have to say yes to everything. Take things step by step and do things that you are comfortable with at your own pace. However, try not to avoid things completely. Avoiding things could make your feelings worsen. Start small like a walk in the park with a friend and build up from there.
5. Get information from the right sources
There is lots of conflicting information regarding what we can and cannot do as the restrictions ease. This can make things very confusing. Use the Gov.UK website for the correct and up-to-date information.
It is very important to reach out to your GP, resources, friends or family if you are struggling with any feelings. Talking can make how you feel easier and will help what you might be feeling.
