How to look after your mental wellbeing

What you need 

• a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone  

• access to wifi  

• pens and a notebook (optional)  

Top tips  

1Practice self-care

During these difficult times it’s essential to treat yourself as well as possible: 

• make sure you’re getting enough sleep 

• eat a balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables and stay hydrated 

• try to maintain a routine of waking up, getting ready and sleeping at the same time each day 

• be kind to yourself – if you feel like resting, then allow yourself to do so 

2Exercise

Exercise releases lots of endorphins and reduces anxiety. If you feel up to it you could try: 

• a walk around the block or to a nearby park or greenspace – as long as you stay 2 metres apart from others not within your household 

• some of the exercise videos available online, such as yoga with Adrienne, the NHS fitness studio or PE with Joe Wicks 

• an exercise app 

Look at our guide on how to keep fit during lockdown for more inspiration. 

3Keep a journal

Writing in a private journal every day can help you to work through your thoughts and reduce stress. Some journal ideas could be: 

• checking in with yourself and how you’re feeling 

• reflecting on what’s happened during your day 

• working through something that you’re going through 

4Create support networks

It’s useful to have a group of family and friends that you can check in with. There are plenty of ways to stay in touch during this time: 

• by reaching out virtually on Skype, Zoom, House Party, Jitsi or Google Hangouts 

• by writing a letter to family and friends  

• by joining online events. If you’re unsure how to join in, take a look at our guide on how to attend online activities and events 

5Meditate

Meditation can help you to better handle negative feelings and emotions and reduce anxiety. There are plenty of support materials out there: 

• Head Space is offering free meditation support during this time 

• Calm is offering a variety of meditations for both adults and children  

• The Chopra Foundation is offering free daily meditations and journal prompts for 21 days 

• for a group meditation you could join the Mindfulness Association Meditation 

6Seek professional help

This is a very overwhelming time and sometimes we may need professional help. There are lots of resources to help, such as:  

• the government guidance on how to look after your mental wellbeing 

• Mind, the mental health charity’s website, which offers information and support 

• phone calls with the Samaritans 

• online GP services, who can help you get the support you need 

• counsellors who are offering their services online 

7Look out for others

Helping other people can give you a sense of purpose.  

Look at our Coronavirus: ways you can help your community page for some ideas.  

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