Coronavirus and your wellbeing

You might be worried about coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) and how it could affect your life. This might feel difficult or stressful over the upcoming weeks and months. But there are lots of things you can try that could help your wellbeing during this challenging time.

If you are feeling worried or anxious

You are not alone. Many people are worried about coronavirus and the implications for day to day life. These feelings are a normal response to an abnormal situation.

For example you might be worried about your own health and your loved ones, experiencing a change in your sleep or eating patterns, having difficulty concentrating and experiencing physical symptoms of panic. For most people these feelings are temporary and will pass. However, there are things you can do to help manage and reduce your worrying thoughts and feelings related to coronavirus.

Limit the news you read to once or twice per day. Reading lots of news about coronavirus can heighten these feelings. Only read information from reputable sites such as government and NHS websites
Have a break from social media. Mute or unfollow accounts/ posts if you find the information overwhelming
Make time to relax. Try to do activities you enjoy. Relaxation and breathing exercises will be helpful
Connect with friends/family. Speak to others about how you are feeling. Try to call rather than text.
Keep to a normal routine. Having structure to your day helps people feel more in control
Eat well, sleep well and exercise regularly. Being physically well helps people to cope better with anxious feelings.
Avoid alcohol, smoking and other drugs to deal with your emotions.
Reduce demands on yourself and don’t take on extra responsibilities.
Expect these thoughts and feelings may come and go. Remember they are normal reactions to this stressful event and will get better for most people.

Moodcafe has lots of information on self-help resources relating to management of stress, various anxiety difficulties, sleep problems and low mood which will be helpful at this difficult time. For further information click on Mental Health Info and Wellbeing and Lifestyle above.

Telephone Contacts

Breathing Space Scotland 0800 83 85 87 - advisors are available in the evenings (6pm - 2am) and at the weekends (24 hours) for anyone feeling low, anxious or isolated

The Silver Line 0800 4 70 80 90 - friendship and advice 24 hours a day for older people

Samaritans116 123 - volunteers who will listen or talk through your worries (available 24 hours)

If you have existing mental health condition

This may be a particularly worrying time for people with existing health conditions. The online resources listed will be helpful along with disorder specific information below.

Mental Health

Anxiety (including OCD) https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/coronanxiety-support-resources/

OCD https://www.ocduk.org/ocd-and-coronavirus-survival-tips/

Mental Health Helplines https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/

NHS Apps - https://www.nhs.uk/apps-library/category/mental-health/