Struggling to resurface post lockdown?
BLOG BY REBEKAH. C
Our tips on dealing with the mental health impact of COVID-19
Mental health issues have skyrocketed in the UK since the pandemic first emerged in 2020. Although different groups have responded to the events of COVID-19 in unique ways, studies have shown an overwhelming increase in anxiety, stress, and even depression.
Now that things are opening up and life seems to be resuming a bit, this is something to be addressed. Good mental health isn’t just important to your happiness – it has a direct impact on your physical health too. [1] The more your mental health suffers, the more likely you are to struggle with poor immunity, long-term issues caused by stress, and even trouble eating or sleeping correctly. Currently, around a quarter of the total ill-health burden in the UK is a result or mental health issues. [2]
Here’s how the pandemic is influencing our emotional and mental wellbeing, and what you can do to manage the effects.
The Facts: COVID-19 and Mental Health
According to national studies, 69% of adults in the UK report feeling either somewhat or very worried about the overall impact of the pandemic on their life.[3] The most common concerns were often fears about the future (63%), or feeling anxious (56%).
While a certain level of worry is a natural response to a global pandemic, an IFS analysis revealed that mental health has worsened by more than 8% since the pandemic began, and some groups are struggling more than others.[4] Young adults, pregnant women, and people with pre-existing health conditions have been hit hardest.
Further research by the UK government revealed that the percentage of people reporting a clinically significant level of psychological distressed increased from 20.7% in 2019 to 29.5% in April 2020.[5]
What’s more, among younger people with mental health issues, 67% said they believe the pandemic will have a long-term negative impact on their mental health.[6] Many believed that their mental health would come from things like damaged friendships, lost loved ones, and issues with finding work.
Coping with Mental Health Issues in a Pandemic
The general atmosphere of worry and panic is understandable in our current climate. Most people have never encountered anything like the events of 2020 in their lifetime.
Many of us don’t have a strategy in place for dealing with the emotional of impact of social isolation, housing issues, and even job insecurity. Drivers of worsening mental health during the pandemic have ranged from feelings of loneliness, to reduced access to crucial coping mechanisms. Countless people in the UK had trouble booking physician appointments or mental health appointments during lockdowns. So, what can we do to protect ourselves in this difficult time?
#1 Do the Right Research
One of the worst things that many people did during the pandemic was remain glued to the news, constantly catching up on statistics about death tolls and potential infection numbers. Although it’s important to be informed during a global crisis, reducing your exposure to this information to a more manageable level is crucial. Rather than constantly focusing on the news, make sure you take breaks and look for other sources of information instead.
For instance, if you’re worried about job and home security, you can look into government support for businesses, employees, and self-employed professionals.[7] You can also reach out to countless banks and companies offering payment loans and extra support for people in financial distress.
When you do need to catch up on news about the pandemic, make sure you’re collecting information from reputable sources (rather than just looking at social media).
#1 Do the Right Research
One of the worst things that many people did during the pandemic was remain glued to the news, constantly catching up on statistics about death tolls and potential infection numbers. Although it’s important to be informed during a global crisis, reducing your exposure to this information to a more manageable level is crucial. Rather than constantly focusing on the news, make sure you take breaks and look for other sources of information instead.
For instance, if you’re worried about job and home security, you can look into government support for businesses, employees, and self-employed professionals.[7] You can also reach out to countless banks and companies offering payment loans and extra support for people in financial distress.
When you do need to catch up on news about the pandemic, make sure you’re collecting information from reputable sources (rather than just looking at social media).
#2 Connect With Other People
Human connection is one of the most important tools in good health. Research constantly proves that good relationships improve our mental wellbeing by helping us to build a sense of belonging and share our feelings with others.
Now that you're able to go outside, take advantage of the opportunity to safely see friends and relatives, following the government guidelines at all times of course! Remember, whether you’re reaching out in-person or over-the-phone, talking about your concerns and worries can help to take some of the pressure off your shoulders.
Talk your concerns through with the people you care about, but also try and find time to laugh, have fun, and plan exciting new adventures for the days ahead.
#3 Look After Your Body
Your mental and physical health are more connected than you’d think. [8]
Ignoring exercise, over-eating and failing to look after your body during a pandemic can lower your immune system and put you at greater risk. It also leads to issues like weight gain, problems with your self-esteem, and trouble sleeping.
Staying physical active, by exercising at home, in your garden, or anywhere else where it’s safe to do so, will help you to build all kinds of physical and mental endurance. You’ll feel stronger in yourself, which means you’re more likely to feel mental strength too. Additionally, looking after your body with exercise also gives you a chance to tap into endorphins for a fantastic mood boost.
Along with regular exercise, try to make sure you’re eating healthy meals, with plenty of water and minimal alcohol. Though alcohol can seem like a good idea when we’re feeling stressed, it often increases feelings of depression and anxiety. [9]
#4 Do More of What You Enjoy
For many people, the biggest stressor of the pandemic was being forced out of their routine. Lockdowns and social distancing prevented many of us from enjoying common hobbies like going to the gym and spending time with friends. However, you can carry on doing the things you enjoy, even if you’re stuck at home as we saw.
Now that lockdown isn’t an issue, try to make plans to regularly go out and do the things that make you happy. Sticking to this will help you rediscover your confidence. Consider learning some new skills or exploring some new hobbies to get out into the community again. Research shows that learning new skills boosts self-esteem and increases our sense of purpose. [10]
With today’s huge selection of online classes, you could learn how to cook, play an instrument, or speak a new language in your spare time from home too.
#4 Do More of What You Enjoy
For many people, the biggest stressor of the pandemic was being forced out of their routine. Lockdowns and social distancing prevented many of us from enjoying common hobbies like going to the gym and spending time with friends. However, you can carry on doing the things you enjoy, even if you’re stuck at home as we saw.
Now that lockdown isn’t an issue, try to make plans to regularly go out and do the things that make you happy. Sticking to this will help you rediscover your confidence. Consider learning some new skills or exploring some new hobbies to get out into the community again. Research shows that learning new skills boosts self-esteem and increases our sense of purpose. [10]
With today’s huge selection of online classes, you could learn how to cook, play an instrument, or speak a new language in your spare time from home too.
#5 Practice Mindfulness
Finally, one of the best things you can do for your mental health, is to be aware of yourself. Many of us try to push ourselves to “be okay” even when we’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. This often means we push our feelings down or ignore them until they become overwhelming. Being more mindful of your feelings and understanding them can help you to overcome feelings of stress.
Be kind to yourself when you’re feeling panicked or anxious and give yourself a break for moments when you might feel scared. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, there are tons of mindfulness apps that can teach you how to control your emotions, relax, and manage your worries.
It’s also worth being mindful of how you interact with others during this difficult time. Remember that other people, just like you, are going through a difficult period. When you can, support your friends by listening to them, or helping them with their worries.
Being kind and generous will help you to feel better about yourself, and it ensures you can preserve those all-important relationships you rely on.
The pandemic has caused a lot of confusion and stress for many people – but it’s also shown us how resilient human beings can be. Be kind to yourself and look after your mental health. Remember, if you do have a serious concern about your feelings of anxiety, stress, or depression, it’s crucial to reach out to a doctor for extra support.
References
[1] https://truthnaturals.co.uk/blogs/truth-blog/the-truth-about-health
[2] https://www.rsph.org.uk/uploads/assets/uploaded/b215d040-2753-410e-a39eb30ad3c8b708.pdf
[3] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/healthandwellbeing/bulletins/coronavirusandthesocialimpactsongreatbritain/5june2020
[4] https://ifs.org.uk/uploads/The-mental-health-effects-of-the-first-two-months-of-lockdown-and-social-distancing-during-the-Covid-19-pandemic-in-the-UK.pdf
[5] https://psyarxiv.com/mjg72/
[6] https://youngminds.org.uk/about-us/reports/coronavirus-impact-on-young-people-with-mental-health-needs/
[7] https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus
[8] https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/p/physical-health-and-mental-health
[9] https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/mental-health/alcohol-and-depression
[10] https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/raise-low-self-esteem/
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