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.
This story is from the July 2020 edition of Let's Talk.
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This story is from the July 2020 edition of Let's Talk.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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