While we all may know how to look after our physical health in lockdown like wearing masks, physical distancing, etc., what measures are you taking to look after your mental wellbeing?
Jeremy Caird, Group Organisational Development Manager-HR Directorate, shared with us some thoughts and idea on how to look after your mental wellbeing in lockdown.
“Connecting with people is important – at home, friends and family. If you know someone who lives alone – reach out to them. “
“Connecting with people keeps us whole, keeps us feeling better about stuff. There’s a lot of evidence and science behind that – that interacting with people will help us feel better and do better” says Jeremy.
One way you can connect more to those in your household is through meal preparation, getting the whole family involved in making kai.
“I’ve got three young boys and we make sourdough bread. There are sometimes complaints about who does it but the next day they all say ‘this is my bread’,” says Jeremy as he talks about what connection in lockdown looks like for his family.
Another very important aspect of mental welling is to be kind to yourself and that includes realising that it is ok to give ourselves a break.
“If things are feeling really busy, or extra stressful, then maybe we’re not going to get everything done – maybe the lawns won’t be get mowed or the car can’t be washed – and that’s not necessarily a bad thing -- a bit of recovery time is good too,” says Jeremy.
If you are the opposite and feel you have too much time on your hands, it’s a great time to do something different or learn something new like a hobby.
Some other important wellbeing advice is rest well, eat well and get outdoors. Exercise is great for mental health as well as physical health.
If you are finding it a bit tough this lockdown there are a range of great resources and wellbeing information that are publically available including the Mental Health Foundation website, the MOH COVID-19: Mental health and wellbeing resources page and Health Navigator.