Looking after your mental health whilst social distancing

It’s really important for people who are self-isolating because of coronavirus to look after their mental health and wellbeing as well as their physical health.

Staying at home and avoiding contact with others as much as possible is essential to limit the risk of catching the virus or spreading it to others. But for many people, especially if you live alone, social isolation can be a lonely, anxious, scary, or depressing time.

Here are a few simple tips to help look after our mental well-being. These tips are for people who are self-isolating or are maybe just feeling isolated.

Try the 30-3-30 approach

The suggestions below are grouped into things that take about 30 seconds, things that you can do in about 3 minutes, and things that might take 30 minutes or longer. The 30-second ones are quick fix ‘emergency’ actions you can do if you suddenly feel panicky, scared, or unable to cope.