Wellbeing and mental health

Every Mind Matters

The impact and experience of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has been different for everyone. However, there are plenty of things you can do and more help and support is available if you're struggling with your mental health.

The NHS’ Every Mind Matters website has plenty of resources and tips to help with stress, anxiety, sleep and low mood.

Top tips for dealing with uncertainty

  • Take stock of how you feel: Put time aside to examine your current situation and consider how you really feel, perhaps talking it through with someone you trust.
  • Focus on the short term: The further we look into the future, the easier it is to get overwhelmed by long-term uncertainty. Instead, try to focus on the day-to-day, and think about what's in your power to do right now.
  • Acknowledge what's working: Even when it might feel like everything is up in the air or going wrong, there will be some things, however small, that do not change. It could be a close relationship, our favourite meal or a song that means something to us.
  • Reframe your thoughts: In difficult times like this, it can be easy to get caught up in negative thoughts, feelings and actions. For most people, at this time, feeling uneasy is an understandable response to the uncertainty present in everyday life. It can be helpful to step back, examine the evidence for your thoughts and explore other ways of looking at the situation.
  • Find a new rhythm: Routine and structure can be a powerful way to regain consistency and reduce uncertainty. Make time to de-stress and wind down each day – build in positive activities like exercise, relaxation, hobbies, speaking to friends or spending time with those close to you, and think about a positive sleep routine. 

You can also get a free NHS Every Mind Matters action plan and start feeling better on the inside by completing this quick quiz.

It's important to remember it is okay to feel down and stressed during this period of uncertainty. Taking care of your mind as well as your body, and feeling better on the inside, is more important now than ever. For more advice and tips on dealing with the pandemic, visit the following websites:

How we can help

In February, we asked you to take part in our short wellbeing survey to find out what information or activities would be useful for you to support your wellbeing. We're going to use the results of the survey to put together a programme of free wellbeing activities for residents.