10 tips to help if you are worried about coronavirus

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak means life has changed for us all. It may cause you to feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, lonely or frustrated.

It’s important to remember it is OK to feel this way and that everyone reacts differently – for most of us, these difficult feelings will pass.

There are some simple things you can do to help you take care of your mental health and wellbeing during times of uncertainty. Doing so will help you think clearly, and make sure you are able to look after yourself and those you care about.

Here are 10 ways you can help improve your mental health and wellbeing if you are worried or anxious about the coronavirus outbreak.

1. Stay connected with people
Maintaining healthy relationships with people we trust is important for our mental wellbeing. Now that the government guidelines allow more social activity outside, this may feel easier. Just make sure you follow the latest government guidance and stay at least 2 metres apart from others. Think about how you can continue to stay in touch with friends and family, especially if you or they need to stay at home.

2. Talk about your worries
It’s normal to feel a bit worried, scared or helpless about the current situation. Remember: it’s OK to share your concerns with others you trust – and doing so may help them too.

3. Support and help others
Helping someone else can benefit you as well as them, so try to be a little more understanding of other people’s concerns, worries or behaviours at this time. Try to think of things you can do to help those around you. Is there a friend or family member nearby you could message?

4. Feel prepared
As the outbreak continues, it can help to work through the implications of government guidelines so you feel more prepared and less concerned. If you are continuing to stay at home, then it can help to think through a typical week: how will it continue to be affected and what will you need to do to solve any problems?

5. Look after your body
Our physical health has a big impact on how we feel. At times like these, it can be easy to fall into unhealthy patterns of behaviour that end up making you feel worse. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water and exercise regularly. Avoid smoking or drugs, and try not to drink too much alcohol. Going for a walk, run or bike ride can really help lift your mood and clear your mind.

6. Stick to the facts
Find a credible source you can trust – such as GOV.UK or the NHS website – and fact-check information you get from newsfeeds, social media or other people. Think about how possibly inaccurate information could affect others too. Try not to share information without fact-checking against credible sources. You might also want to consider limiting the time you spend watching, reading or listening to coverage of the outbreak, including on social media, and think about turning off breaking-news alerts on your phone.

7. Stay on top of difficult feelings
Concern about the coronavirus outbreak is perfectly normal. However, some people may experience intense anxiety that can affect their daily life. Try to focus on the things you can control, such as your behaviour, who you speak to, and where and how often you get information.

8. Do things you enjoy
If we’re feeling worried, anxious or low, we might stop doing things we usually enjoy. Focusing on your favourite hobby, relaxing or connecting with others can help with anxious thoughts and feelings.

9. Focus on the present
Focusing on the present, rather than worrying about the future, can help with difficult emotions and improve our wellbeing.

10. Look after your sleep
Good-quality sleep makes a big difference to how we feel mentally and physically, so it’s important to get enough.

Try to maintain regular sleeping patterns and keep up good sleep hygiene practices – like avoiding screens before bed, cutting back on caffeine and creating a restful environment.

At The Hypnosis Clinic we continue to help people to find a better perspective through these challenging times.

Your first consultation is free of charge, and we can arrange your appointment here at our Regent Street Clinic in central London, on Facetime/Skype, or on the phone. So, you can find out about how we can help from the comfort of your own home.

Visiting our clinic is a comfortable and safe experience. You can read about the safety guidelines we have in place on our website, www.thehypnosisclinic.com

Even if you just fancy a chat, we are happy to help.

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Hypnosis London
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COVID Anxiety
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