5 Ways To Protect Your Mental Health

Being concerned about the news is understandable, but for many people it can make existing mental health problems worse. The fear of being out of control and unable to tolerate uncertainty are common characteristics of many anxiety disorders. "A lot of anxiety is rooted in worrying about the unknown and waiting for something to happen - Coronavirus is that on a macro scale," states Rosie Weatherley, spokesperson for mental health charity Mind.

So how can we protect our mental health?

1. Limit Time on Social Media & News Outlets

Having long periods away from news websites and social media can help in managing feelings of anxiety. Limit the amount of time you spend reading or watching things which aren't making you feel better. Mute key words which might be triggering on Twitter and unfollow or mute accounts that might be feeding into false information.

You can also consider muting WhatsApp groups or hiding Facebook posts and feeds if you find them too overwhelming. It can be easy to fall into a cycle of constantly checking, but by dedicating specific times to check in with the news, you’ll allow yourself to have some well needed space and time away from it. Use this time for doing the things that fulfill you.

2. Stay Connected With Loved Ones

Increasing numbers will join those already in self-isolation so now might be a good time to make sure you have the right phone numbers and email addresses of the people you care about. Agree regular check-in times to feel connected to the people around you," states BBC Health News.

If you're self-isolating, strike a balance between having a routine and making sure each day has some variety. You could work through your to-do list and then read a book you've been meaning to get to. Find time in the evenings to connect with friends and family, and find other areas to talk about other than just the news.

3. Practice Yoga and Meditation

With the majority of yoga studios closing whilst in isolation, it’s the perfect opportunity to practice yoga in the comfort of your home. Or perhaps you’ve never tried yoga before, and think it might be the right time to begin! Either way, there are lots of great yoga apps and online yoga hubs where you can follow along and move your body mindfully. Here are some of our favourites;

Alomoves - A subscription based hub full of yoga, fitness, meditation and how-tos. Perfect for the regular yogi who’s looking for variety in flows.

Downdog - They’re currently offering free subscriptions for students and yoga teachers during this difficult time we face! It’s an easy app to navigate with lots of options to give yourself variety.

Glo -With over 4,000 classes on demand, Glo have a huge variety of classes to suit your tastes.

Yoga with Adriene - Perfect for those who have never tried yoga and want to start. Try her 30 Day Yoga Series, which build the starting foundations for you. Plus she’s an angel to listen to, and is sure to curb any feelings of anxiousness.

Meditation is also 100% worth practicing when looking after your mental health. It has profound effects on calming your parasympathetic system, and your ability to stay calm and centered. When this system begins to work through breath work and meditation, your heart rate and blood pressure decreases, and you’ll feel calmer and less anxious. Apps like Headspace and Calm are great for beginners.

4. Be Creative

If you’re self-isolating, and need some distractions, one of the best things you can do for your soul is practice your creativity. Start or pick-up a hobby that can allow you to focus your attention to something that will make you happy and fulfilled.

There are lots of tutorials online to learn things such as macrame hangings, painting, crafts, DIY home improvements… the list goes on. Or just put on your favourite music and dance.

Anything you do that’s exercising your creativity and playfulness with release lots of serotonin - the chemical responsible for feeling joy, and will allow you to put your energy into something that’s not only rewarding, but also soothing and grounding.

5. Visit Nature

We may mostly be self-isolating, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on nature. It’s so important to access nature and sunlight wherever possible. If you’re close to a park, or you have access to a car, go out and enjoy the great outdoors. The National Trust will, where possible, open as many of its gardens and parks for free over the next while, but close its houses, cafes and shops to help the nation fight the spread of the coronavirus. Big open spaces and walking are great for boosting the immune system and getting fresh air into your lungs.

Other bits to keep your body and mind in a balanced state is to exercise to keep yourself strong and your immune system in tip-top condition. Eat well everyday with fruit and vegetables and stay hydrated. Vitamin C is also your best friend.

We’d love to hear how you’re looking after yourself, and how you protect your mental health.

Let us know in the comments below.