Five Ways To Boost Wellbeing In These Difficult Times

The current coronavirus pandemic is as devastating as just about anything most of us have ever had to endure. Our mental health is being tested by our fears and the lockdown situation, but the NHS website suggests five ways to help yourself, as Terry Redhead explains.

- Terry Redhead

Evidence suggests there are five steps you can take to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Trying these things could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life, especially in these most difficult of times.

1 Connect with other people

Good relationships are important for your mental wellbeing. They can help you to build a sense of belonging and self-worth; give you an opportunity to share positive experiences, and provide emotional support and allow you to support others.

There are lots of things you could try to help build stronger and closer relationships when you are allowed closer contact with others once more.

If possible, take time each day to be with your family; for example, try arranging a fixed time to eat dinner together.

Do arrange a day out with friends you have not seen for a while, obviously once lockdown is over.

Try switching off the TV to talk or play a game with your children, friends or family.

Have lunch with a colleague, again when lockdown is over.

Do visit a friend or family member who needs support or company, as soon as you can.

Volunteer at a local school, hospital or community group. Find out how you can start to volunteer on the GOV.UK website

Make the most of technology to stay in touch with friends and family. Video-chat apps like Skype and FaceTime are useful, especially if you live far apart.

Search and download online community apps on the NHS apps library.