Coronavirus and mental health: government guidance and support for coping with the Covid-19 outbreak

Mental Health Minister Nadine Dorries announced that people struggling with their mental health during the coronavirus outbreak will be offered additional online support and practical guidance to help them cope.

In recognition of the problems which self-isolation can pose to mental health Public Health England has published said online guidance setting out principles to follow to help people to manage their mental health during the pandemic

You can read a full list of the government’s guidance here.

The following is a more concise breakdown of what the government recommend you do to maintain your mental health during lockdown

Consider how to connect with others

Maintaining relationships with people you trust is important for your mental wellbeing. Think about how you can stay in touch with friends and family via telephone, video calls or social media instead of meeting in person – whether it’s people you normally see often or connecting with old friends.

Help and support others

Think about how you could help those around you – it could make a big difference to them and can make you feel better too.

Could you message a friend or family member nearby? Are there community groups that you could join to support others locally?

Talk about your worries

It is quite common to feel worried, scared or helpless about the current situation. Remember that this is a difficult time for everyone and sharing how you are feeling and the things you are doing to cope with family and friends can help them too.

Look after your physical wellbeing

Your physical health has a big impact on how you are feeling emotionally and mentally. At times like these, it can be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour which in turn can make you feel worse. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water, exercise inside where possible and outside once a day, and try to avoid smoking, alcohol and drugs.

Look after your sleep

Feeling anxious or worried can make it harder to get a good night’s sleep. Good-quality sleep makes a big difference to how you feel mentally and physically, so it’s important to get enough.

Try to manage difficult feelings