Infectious disease outbreaks, like the current Coronavirus (COVID-19), can be scary and can affect our mental health. While it is important to stay informed, there are also many things we can do to support and manage our well-being during such times.
How should people deal with being in self-isolation or in quarantine?
If there’s a chance you could have coronavirus, you may be asked to stay away from other people (self-isolate).
For people that are in self-isolation or are in quarantine, this may seem like a daunting prospect. It will help to try and see it as a different period of time in your life, and not necessarily a bad one, even if you didn’t choose it.
It will mean a different rhythm of life, a chance to be in touch with others in different ways than usual. Be in touch with other people regularly on social media, e-mail or on the phone, as they are still good ways of being close to the people who matter to you.
Create a daily routine that prioritises looking after yourself. You could try reading more or watching movies, having an exercise routine, trying new relaxation techniques, or finding new knowledge on the internet. Try and rest and view this as a new if unusual experience, that might have its benefits.
Make sure your wider health needs are being looked after such as having enough prescription medicines available to you.
Local Pastoral Care: 01787 210434 – rparkermcgee@gmail.com
07914 786760 – BoxfordCommunityHub@gmail.com
Samaritans – 116 123 or jo@samaritans – Many people think they are only there for people actively thinking of ending their life. That is far from reality. The majority of callers suffer from depression, anxiety or poor mental health. Many are isolated and lonely.
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/
https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/what-to-do-if-you-re-anxious-about-coronavirus/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/462586404414643/