I’m Stuck at Home.
- Create yourself a schedule - This is something I’ve been doing for years now. It really gives me a sense of purpose and time. Even if it’s just scheduling a time for getting out of bed, meal times and bedtimes. After you’ve done that you will see gaps where you can add things you have to do and things you’d like to do. Keeping a regular pattern helps to keep normality; as much as is possible. You can create a schedule with a simple pen and paper or using your computer or a calendar app on your phone. If you don’t mind spending a few pounds then my favourite way is by actually buying a planner. Order online of course.
- Stick to your office hours - If you’re working from home, this is key for reducing stress levels. It may be tempting to hit snooze until lunch time and just work until 8pm, but I promise you by the time you get to 5pm you’ll be cursing under your breath. Also another tip for working at home, create a work station (if you have space). Try not to bring your work into other parts of your home. Leave work at the door (figuratively).
- Friends and family - Though we cannot see our loved ones in person, it’s important to keep contact where possible. Try to arrange times friends are free for a good chat; you could even put it in your schedule. If you’re worried about running your minutes down, then skype, whatsapp and facebook all have video call features. Another fun app I’ve discovered recently is Houseparty. Up to 8 people can join the video chat and you even play games and do quizzes together. There are also online communities for those of you that might not have anyone to talk to, or maybe you just need to talk about your difficulties in a safe space; Elefriends (by mind) is one such place. I’ve been a member for a long time now and the community is brilliant.
- Escapism - I cannot stress enough how well this is working for me right now. Escapism can be anything that temporarily distracts you from current life events. Writing, art, making music, reading, playing games; anything that works for you. Personally my creative writing, Animal Crossing and Breath of the Wild, have given me fantasy worlds to retreat to.
- Exercise - You knew it was coming. We all know regular exercise is vital for our bodies, but we often forget what it does for our minds. Exercise releases chemicals called endorphins, which can help to beat stress. Now, I can practically hear the anxious groans of people like me, whose mental health conditions would never let them go jogging in public. Madness! Indoor exercise however, is no lesser. Easy home yoga, zumba and many other classes are available free on Youtube. If you have a Nintendo Switch/ Wii ‘Just Dance’ is a great workout. I’ve also heard good things about the Switch's ‘Ring Fit’ (though I currently lack the funding for that).
- Emotional Support - Many of you may currently be finding it difficult to get support for your mental health. Check to see what your mental health service is offering locally. Some services are still running and over the phone support seems to be the main port of call. You can also find support within online communities, close and impartial friends and some helplines, which you can access via this link.
Look out for my next post where I talk about what you can do to cope if you’re a Keyworker.
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