Feeling vulnerable is ok

Many of us are feeling worried or stressed about how long coronavirus could continue to affect our lives, as well as our loved ones.

With the constant and often unsettling news about the pandemic, it’s perfectly normal to feel tense, nervous and perhaps fearful.

Coronavirus has changed all of our lives, but it’s important to remember that there are many things we can do to support and manage our own and other’s mental wellbeing.

Last week, we shared some tips on protecting your mental health during these difficult times. Below are some further tips we hope will help you, your friends and your family look after your mental health at a time when there is so much talk about the physical impact of coronavirus.

Talk to your friends and family

Involving our family and children in our plans for good mental health is essential. Ask children what they have heard about the outbreak and support them, explaining with the facts, without causing them alarm. Allow them to ask questions and explore together what that means for you all.

Try to anticipate distress

It is OK to feel vulnerable and overwhelmed as we read news about the outbreak, especially if you have experienced trauma or a mental health problem in the past, or if you have a long-term physical health condition that makes you more vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus.

It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and remind each other to look after our physical and mental health. We should also be aware of - and avoid - increasing habits that may not be helpful in the long term, like smoking and drinking.

Try and reassure people you know who may be worried and check in with people who you know are living alone.

Try not to make assumptions

Don’t judge people and avoid jumping to conclusions about who is responsible for the spread of the disease. The coronavirus can affect anyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

Working from home

Whilst many people will be used to working at home now and again, doing this for an extended period of time may impact on your mental health. Some tips to support you working from home include:

• Keep in regular contact with colleagues by phone and video calls such as Skype, WhatsApp and FaceTime.
• Look after your physical health – eating well and exercising can have a positive effect on your mental health too.
• Try and get some fresh air at least once a day where possible.
• Separate work and home - switch off at the normal time at the end of the day.

We understand there is concern and anxiety about coronavirus. If you or a member of your team would like to speak to a counsellor, you can contact First Class Support available 24/7 to provide emotional (not medical) support on 0800 6888 777.

Click here to see the full range of support available to you.