talkhealth Blog

Every week, we’re sharing your recommendations for how best to pass the time during this period of social distancing.

Many thanks to everyone who has filled in our survey. We’ll get through social isolation/distancing by pulling together as a community and this is a very simple way of keeping each other entertained and connected.

This week’s theme has been on anxiety, and plenty of you have been submitting your experiences and tips for managing mental health wobbles during the crisis.

Here are just a few of our favourites:

Don’t stop doing what makes you happy

We are frustrated at not going out for evening events, so with the free operas and concerts on offer online, we are dressing for the theatre to watch! It’s great for our morale!

Routine, routine, routine!

I try to stick to a routine with my children and stay positive by thinking about the things that we are grateful for. We have a beautiful garden and it helps us to relax – both by listening to nature and gardening.

Do anything that makes you feel good

It’s the simple things that help me personally: a long dog walk, reading the book for an hour in the garden, talking to a friend. Sometimes writing a letter helps, even if I don’t send it. A bubble bath, listening to my favourite music, relaxing, meditating, dancing around the kitchen. Whatever helps me relax, smile or laugh is a good thing. I’d say whatever works for you – but I wouldn’t recommend turning to food or alcohol, as that never ends well. Try to talk to someone – anyone, a friend, a family member, a complete stranger. If you’re struggling to cope, talking will often help.

It’s not all about you!

The best way of thinking is that you are taking steps to protect yourself and the wider community. This won’t last forever and may make the world a better place ultimately.

Social media may help

I have suffered from mental health problems for years. I find that if you go outside and appreciate all the nature around you and really focus on it, it helps. There are also really inspiring Instagram accounts, like (the actress) Nikki Reed’s. Music also helps.

Be mindful about how much news you consume

I was watching every news bulletin and obsessing on the daily advice changes. I would watch all the channels – not good. My partner and I have decided to limit news/information broadcasts to twice a day: morning and evening. We use distractions, films, books and kids’ homework to swerve away from the TV.

Acknowledge the struggle

I have been fine during lockdown as I don’t really like talking to others anyway. It will be strange when I have to start going out again and engaging with other people – I’m not sure how that will go.