Coronavirus and our emotional wellbeing

Coronavirus image ©AltrinchamToday
Julian Eaton.

At times of disruption, change and uncertainty, it is natural​ for us to worry, and this can cause problems not only in feelings of anxiety and concern, but can sometimes affect how well we function in our daily lives, our workplaces and how we relate to other people.  During the Coronavirus outbreak, however serious it is in your country, it is good make sure we maintain our mental and physical wellbeing, so that we can cope well with the stressful situation, and continue to provide support to people around us.

There are two main things we can do:
Look after ourselves

  • Follow health advice, especially avoid risk of getting infection or passing it on (eg wash hands, distance yourselves from others in public)
  • Stay informed, but don’t immerse yourself in too much negative news. Only follow trusted and respected news sources
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle
    • Eat well, sleep well, exercise. Don’t resort to negative coping mechanisms like smoking or drinking too much
    • Take time out if you need to. If a situation is very stressful, try to remove yourself from it
  • Find trusted people to talk to
    • Friends, colleagues
    • If available, it can be helpful to speak to a counsellor

Look after others

  • The best way to be well is as part of a community!
    • Within CBM, we  can support each other, making plans to ensure everyone is safe, can work effectively, and can support their family
  • Build community cohesion and sense of common cause. Use telephones and online communications to talk to people
  • Support vulnerable people, especially if isolated. Practical things like making sure they have basic needs is most valuable
  • Be empathic and don’t stigmatise. People should not be blamed if they get ill

Here are some links for further information regarding mental health and coping with stress:

Image: Coronavirus image ©AltrinchamToday



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