As 2020 has been a difficult time for everyone due to the global pandemic we are currently living through, as we all are probably sick hearing about – Corona Virus, it is extremely important to remember about our mental health and think of others around us as well. This year world mental health day may be more significant than ever due to lockdown restrictions and loss. Mental health is important every year, every day, every minute and every second but this year it is a great reminder that mental health is a top priority and it is okay not to be okay.
You are not alone
Mental health affects everyone differently and during lockdown we know that many people have developed new problems associated with their mental health and existing mental health problems/illness have worsened. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! There are people to talk to who can help us or even just listen It is important to listen to ones around you, a short conversation with a friend can really have a great impact on their day.
Mental health is for everyone and we all deserve a good, bright positive mindset in these times of uncertainty. Many people have been caused a lot of stress due from lockdown starting, places closing, furlough to even job losses happening. Although is is hard to interact with with others during this pandemic due to many restrictions it is important to stay in touch with one another. A good way to do this is being more active online, interacting with friends and family over social media is a great way to stay in touch from facetime, skype to zoom calls you can have quiz nights and have a laugh, there are countless ways to stay positive but it takes YOU to make this happen. During lockdown
Campaigns running are a great way to get people involved and help businesses and websites get more recognition
Tea & Talk – Virtually share a cup up tea and hang out with your friends, family and colleagues to raise money and awareness for the mental health foundation. Once you sign up you get a free Tea & Talk package sent out, so I would say it’s worth it!
Make a positive change and start TODAY
Checking on your family, friends and work colleagues is more important than ever with a simple ‘How are you?’. Mind have came up with the hashtag #doonethingtoday which was started so that people can start with something small to make a positive change in their lives or someone else’s. The first stages to supporting your own mental health can start with the smallest thing… Take in some fresh air and go for a walk, do something you love whether that be reading a book or painting, challenge yourself with the smallest of things such as getting yourself into a routine that ay make you feel better,
Reach out to someone if you need help or want to talk –
Samaritans
Telephone: 116 123 (24 hours a day, free to call)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: https://www.samaritans.org “Provides confidential, non-judgemental emotional support for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those that could lead to suicide. You can phone, email, write a letter or in most cases talk to someone face to face”.
Mind Infoline
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (9am-6pm Monday to Friday) or text 86463
Email: info@mind.org.uk
Website: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helplines “Mind provides confidential mental health information services. With support and understanding, Mind enables people to make informed choices. The Infoline gives information on types of mental health problems, where to get help, drug treatments, alternative therapies and advocacy. Mind works in partnership with around 140 local Minds providing local mental health services.”
Alisha O’Hagan is a final year BSc in Communication Management & Public Relations student at Ulster University. She can be found on Twitter.