Looking after your mental health

The spread of coronavirus has created uncertainty and the constant news can feel overwhelming. You may be adjusting to a different way of life, with children off school and many people working from home as well as not seeing family, friends and colleagues.

There is a lot of support available if you need information and advice, whether you want to get help if you need it, to support others around you or would just like some tips to help maintain good mental health at this time.

Keep yourself well

There are things everyone should be doing to stay well while we are being asked to stay in our homes.

• Stay connected with your friends and family over the phone or using video calls.
• Stay active and get fresh air by exercising, going for a daily walk or spending time in your garden, if you have one.
• Try to eat a healthy diet.

Public Health England has provided some other tips and advice to keep mentally well during this difficult time:

• Help and support others around you.
• Talk about your worries to your friends or family, or speak to one of the NHS helplines.
• Get enough sleep.
• Manage your media and information intake.
• Get the facts from official sources.
• Think about a new daily routine and set goals.
• Keep your mind active and do activities you enjoy.
• Make sure that you relax.

For more advice visit the Public Health England website.

Mental health and wellbeing

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means that life is changing for all of us for a while. It may cause you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, lonely or frustrated. It's important to remember it is OK to feel this way and that everyone reacts differently. Remember, this situation is temporary and, for most of us, these difficult feelings will pass.

Most importantly, you are not alone and there are organisations to turn to if you feel overwhelmed. Talking can help.Text the word Kent to 85258 or phone 0800 107 0160 for free confidential support at any time. 

Kent County Council,  Every Mind Matters page on anxiety and NHS mental wellbeing audio guides provide further support and  information on how to manage anxiety.

Other organisations helping residents across the Folkestone and Hythe district are listed here .

Keeping active

It's important to stay active if you can. Kent Sport  has resources about how to keep active during lock down.