How to look after your mental health while self-isolating with COVID-19
Last updated on 6 January 2022
It’s just as important to look after your mind as well as your body when self-isolating with COVID-19.
Self-isolating can be difficult for anyone, from feeling bored and lonely to being frustrated and restless. So it’s important to remember this time will pass and what you’re doing is vital in protecting yourself and others.
Here are a few top tips to keep in mind while self-isolating:
1. Be practical
First, think about how you will manage practical everyday tasks that you might not be able to do while self-isolating. From letting your work know you have tested positive to ordering an online grocery shop or asking a neighbour to help deliver household supplies.
If you take repeat medication and don’t have enough, don’t panic – you might be able to order repeat prescriptions by phone or online via a website or app. If this isn’t possible, contact your GP and ask for their advice.
Find out more about what self-isolating means for you – from employment benefit rights to what to do if you care for someone else.
2. Stay connected to others
It can be a very lonely time but staying connected to your friends and family can really help you feel more yourself. Think of all the ways to keep in touch with loved ones – by phone, messaging, video calls or social media. You might want to block out some time each day to chat with someone on the phone. This can give each day some structure and help tackle feelings of loneliness.
If you cannot speak to someone you know or if doing so has not helped, there are plenty of helplines you can try instead.
3. Stay on top of difficult feelings
Feeling anxious during this time is very normal. Try to focus on the things you can control, such as how you act, who you speak to and where you get information from. For example, don’t watch the news if it makes you feel worried.
Looking at the bigger picture and thinking about your problem or situation from someone else's view can make it easier to come up with a plan to combat your anxiety. What advice would you give to a friend or family member in the same situation?
For more ways to deal with anxiety, read the NHS advice to find out more.
4. Carry on doing things you enjoy
It’s not easy but try and relax and do things you enjoy. Why not start a new book, get into a TV series or complete a daily crossword? Whatever works for you! But don’t try and set yourself impossible tasks and put too much pressure on yourself.
Remember, this time will pass, and many people are in the same boat. Look after yourself and keep in mind that what you’re doing is helping save lives – so cut yourself some slack.
For further support and advice, read the NHS advice piece: Mental wellbeing while staying at home.
Speak to a mental health charity or organisation
There are lots of organisations that can help you.
Samaritans
If you need to speak to someone, you can call the Samaritans. They're always open and are there to listen.
Call:116 123
City and East London Bereavement Service
City and East London Bereavement Care provides bereavement support to people across Tower Hamlets. If you need someone to talk to you can call the helpline. You can also speak to them if you've been bereaved as a result of Coronavirus.
Call: 020 3022 5177
https://www.celbs.org.uk/contact-location/
Mind
Mind is a mental health charity that provides advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
Tower Hamlets Mental Health Crisis Line
The mental health crisis line is available 24 hours a day and callers will be given support and advice from mental health professionals. It has been designed as a ‘first port of call’ for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis and to remove the need for those people to seek help via hospital A&E services.
There are qualified mental health professionals taking calls 24/7. The 24 hour Mental Health Crisis Free Phone line.
Call:0800 073 0003.
https://www.elft.nhs.uk/services/tower-hamlets-mental-health-crisis-line
Tell us about your experience of care
Has your care been disrupted by COVID-19 and its impact on health and social care services? Whether it’s good or bad, we want to hear from you.
It only takes five minutes and your feedback can help NHS and social care services understand the steps they can take to improve care for you and your loved ones.
