Mental Health in Lockdown
Mental health looks different for everyone, but now more than ever, we need to take steps to look after ourselves. This guide contains just a few things that could help improve your mental health. Remember, though, that what works for one person might not work for you, so if even one of these things helps you feel better then that’s a success!
Exercise
It’s a well-known fact that exercise causes your brain to release endorphins, which can help put you in a better mood. We’re all limited with how much we can go outside right now, but even lower-intensity exercises like yoga and tai-chi have been proven to lower blood pressure as effectively as aerobic exercises such as running.
Get creative
You don’t have to be a modern-day Salvador Dali to get the mental benefit from being creative. All creative activities can distract a busy brain and put you in a better mindset. Not sure where to start? Why not search for simple phrases such as 'guided drawing' or 'basic origami' on YouTube to get started?
Open up
Sometimes the things in our head can seem like a massive ball of negativity hanging over us. Simply opening up to a friend or loved one can make that big thing seem a lot more manageable. Not all of us will have someone we feel safe opening up to at home but having the courage to message a friend saying ‘I’m not ok’ can feel like a weight off your shoulders.
Go to bed
Often, something that seems overwhelming and utterly impossible can be solved with a good night’s sleep. It’s all too easy to feel like you have to keep working at something to get it fixed but stepping away and getting some rest will allow you to come back feeling refreshed.
Get some fresh air
It’s amazing what a simple walk around the block can do for your mental health. Even taking a moment to sit in the garden and soak in the sounds will help calm your brain down a bit. Don’t worry if you don’t have a garden or can’t get out. Try opening all the windows in your flat and letting the air flow through. You’ll feel like a regular Pocahontas in no time!
Disconnect
With Zoom quizzes and video catchups happening left right and centre, it’s understandable that we might be experiencing a bit of ‘Zoom fatigue’. Even just taking an hour a day to switch off all our electronics and disconnect for a bit can do wonders for your mental wellbeing.
Cut yourself some slack
We’ve all seen those posts on social media that make us feel as though we’ve somehow failed lockdown. Remember, we are going through a global pandemic. It’s a stressful time and while some people cope by keeping their hands busy, others cope by having a little cry and watching old episodes of The Office. There is no ‘right way’ to spend your time during lockdown, so as long as you’re keeping yourself and those around you safe, you’re doing fine.
Reach out for help
Sometimes, when things are rough, the bravest thing you can do is reach out for help. Know that reaching out for help does not mean that you are in any way lacking as a human being. Below are some free resources that can help. Visit the NHS mental health helplines page for a variety of resources.