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1/10 The smallest things that can have biggest impact on people during #COVID19 and #lockdown - I realised this week just how much hobbies keep my mental health in good order. I’ve always enjoyed golf, but only now appreciate the role it plays in helping me reframe and be present
2/10 The challenge has been replacing a hobby with a new habit to build positivity. Like many, For first few weeks I found myself falling into lazy ways after work, increasing tv & wine consumption etc. It was only by Easter weekend I realised this was having a detrimental effect
3/10 But fortunately, I found a ‘mental switch’ that allowed me to start bringing positivity back & appreciate things at home that often went ignored. Football in garden, family walks, healthy home cooking and simple exercise. While small it’s made me realise how fortunate we are
4/10 Across the world, there are people who don’t have these luxuries and my own challenges pale into insignificance, but this has also made me appreciate there are millions of others right now trying to find a way to stay productive and keep their mental health in shape.
5/10 There’s no doubt we are entering a longer period of isolation and social distancing. Some may have found the first 3 weeks really tough - others may have found it a breeze. Either way, challenges will come and have potential to drive you down. There is not one solution...
6/10 But there are options. I did a ‘zoom quiz’ with family on Sunday, I’ve got a virtual visit to friends on Friday, chipping golf balls in garden & I’m even singing in my office. If you can’t do any of those, there are others you can call & speak to. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/
7/10 And when positivity returns or you feel you can do more, however small it may be - Embrace the positive mindset & keep momentum. There are lots of amazing resources, groups & opportunities to help others. Download NHS volunteers app or contact your local council for groups
8/10 But Prepare right for lapses. Take steps now to overcome negativity when it arrives. Write down things that increase your #wellbeing & store the list somewhere safe - Refer to it when things get tough. Remember while we’re apart, we are never alone https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2020/03/22/9-mental-health-practices-to-maintain-or-begin-during-coronavirus-lockdown/amp/
9/10 And finally, when you find the time, get creative! Ditch Netflix for an evening, forget about “business as usual” for a few hours where possible and try something new. A forced lockdown is a great opportunity to try new things & learn new skills. https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/sea.mashable.com/tech/9719/online-learning-websites-thatll-level-you-up-during-the-coronavirus-lockdown%3famp=1
10/10 Ultimately, know that 1 day things will return to some kind of normality. It may never be the same, but how we respond and come out the “other side” is our choice...
Remember 2 things - Check in with others & check in with yourself. We can all do this
#StayHomeSaveLives
Remember 2 things - Check in with others & check in with yourself. We can all do this
#StayHomeSaveLives
