Coronavirus

Why is coronavirus affecting me?

It's OK if you're experiencing a range of emotions due to everything going on around us at the moment.

Click below to find out why you might be feeling this way, then keep scrolling down for more helpful tips and advice...

How are you really feeling?

Coronavirus has brought up a lot of uncertainty for everyone.

Since March 2020, there’s been a lot of changes to our everyday lives, in particular how much contact we can have with others. Many people are feeling sad and lonely from not being able to see loved ones for a while, or anxious and confused about the future and what will happen next.

Although there has been a lot of change, looking after our wellbeing is still more important than ever.

Why am I feeling like this?

This is a big change in your life. It’s normal to feel scared. There are many reasons that could be contributing to you feeling down.

You may ask yourself these questions to find out why:

Coronavirus: What does it all mean?

Coronavirus is an illness that spreads through being in contact with others who have the virus, and touching surfaces or areas that have been contaminated.

Although many people may have mild symptoms then recover quickly, or won’t catch the virus at all, coronavirus can be dangerous, and we must do everything we can to stop it spreading.

Check out this simple guide about Coronavirus and how to stay safe by clicking here.

We are now able to test for Coronavirus (both at home and in hospitals) and many of us are now able to get a vaccine. Click here to learn how the COVID-19 vaccines help to protect ourselves and others from the virus.

If you think you may have Coronavirus and you aren't sure what to do, click here for the NHS website where you can find advice and support.

How can I improve my wellbeing during a pandemic?

It's really important to look after your wellbeing during the pandemic and beyond. We have included some helpful advice with tips on getting through lockdown and social distancing...

Looking after your mental health during COVID-19

Life seems to be moving towards a 'new normal' now, but there's still a lot of uncertainty about what will happen over the next few months.

Many of us have mixed feelings about restrictions being eased. However you are feeling, it's OK to feel this way! Here are some tips for looking after your wellbeing and staying safe:

Safe Socialising - keep up to date on social distancing rules for meeting friends and family (you can find the current guidance here). Or keep in touch with loved ones over video chat - you could have online board game nights, or start a virtual book club!

Limit News/Social Media – it’s easy to get sucked into watching the news or ‘doomscrolling’ through articles, but this can quickly become overwhelming. Try to have breaks from the news and social media or pick a regular time to check for updates (but try to avoid doing this just before going to bed).

Self-Isolation Journal – writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you feel less anxious. If you need to self-isolate, try keeping a daily journal that you can look back on in future to see just how far you’ve come.

Need inspiration?

For more tips about getting through the Coronavirus pandemic, check out this video with ideas from our amazing young people and mental health professionals:

Anxiety

It’s normal for your anxiety to be higher than usual during these uncertain times.

Anxiety is a feeling of unease that can affect you a little or a lot. You may or may not know why you're feeling that way. Anxiety can give you different feelings in your mind and body that can lead you to react in different ways.

Scroll down for some self-care activities that might help if you are feeling anxious about the coronavirus.

We also have a module on anxiety with loads of tips and advice, you may want to check out here.

Self-Care Activities

Keep breathing: connecting with your breath can help support your emotional, physical and mental wellbeing. This technique can help you feel more grounded and less overwhelmed.

Acknowledge your feelings: taking some time to notice how you’re really feeling can help you feel less anxious. It’s OK to feel scared and uncertain right now, so be kind to yourself.

Stay short-term: thinking about the future can be overwhelming, especially at the moment, so try to take things one day at a time. By focusing on what you need in the short-term, it will be easier to concentrate and manage your goals.

Find what works for you: there are lots of different ways to cope with anxiety, and while one strategy might work for someone, it may not work for you. Focus on what is most helpful for you – whether it’s getting some fresh air, catching up with a loved one, or seeking further support - and only do what you’re comfortable with.