We are living in unprecedented times. The virus is still around and it’s understandable that many of us are struggling with worry and anxiety.
Below are examples of readily available resources. Many others are available – as an organisation we share these as examples and neither endorse nor recommend them over others.
Here are a few ideas that may help.
First remember the basics:
Eat well and drink regularly
Exercise regularly– preferably outside whilst maintaining the 2m social distancing requirement – exercise is a proven natural stress buster.
Sleep – this is vital but may be difficult at present with many struggling to switch off their thoughts. Try keep to your regular sleep routine and looks at the resources below.
Rest and relax – if you find your mind spiraling stop close your eyes and breathe for 30 seconds whilst being aware of the sensation of the ground beneath your feet. Try an absorbing activity, this in itself is a form of mindfulness.
Connect with others – for once social media gets a good press
Volunteer to help – see below
The following are a list of resources that might help:
Young minds – https://www.youngminds.org.uk – what to do if you are anxious about corona virus – there is also a service for parents to access for guidance and support email parents @youngminds.org.uk
Young minds crisis messenger service. – text YM to 85258 – free available 24/7 for young people experiencing mental health concerns.
Childline — call 08001111
Kooth – https://www.kooth.com – offers emotional and mental health support to young people aged 11-24.
Papyrus– https://www.papyrus-uk.org – for those who are feeling hopeless and contemplating self-harm or suicide – aims to give young people hope and prevent suicide .
Papyrus Hopelineuk – call 08000684141 or text 07786209697
B- Eat – https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk – a youth helpline for those struggling with eating disorders – call 08456347650
The Mix – https://www.themix.org.uk – offering mental health support for under 25s: 0808 8084994 – has information on management of anxiety depression self-harm, personality disorders etc.
Apps that might be helpful particularly with anxiety:
Stay alive – free suicide prevention app
Self-help – anxiety management
Calm harm
Moodometer
Headspace
The mindfulness app
Breathe – meditation and sleep
Reflectly – journal for happiness
Calm – Meditation and sleep stories
Volunteering (for over 18s)
Volunteer groups:
NHS Community response volunteers – www.goodsamapp.org/nhs
Red Cross volunteers – www.redcross.org.uk/get-involved/kindness-together
National Association for Voluntary and Community Action – www.navca.org.uk/find-a-member-1
Covid-19 Mutual Aid – www.covidmutualaid.org/local-groups
Above all remember:
You are not alone – help is out there. Remember to look after yourself and each other – this is not forever and will pass.
Remember self-care
Connect with others – share your own vulnerability
Distraction, mindfulness, absorbing activities
We are all in this together and together we will get through this