The public has not experienced a crisis like this for decades, and most of us are not used to having to isolate ourselves, missing out on our hobbies, our loved ones and things we enjoy doing.
However, the outbreak of Covid-19 has seen the country become locked down, meaning we are no longer allowed out other than to go to the shop for essential items or for one daily exercise.
Those who are in self-isolation – because they have symptoms or they are vulnerable people – are not even allowed to do this and are forced to stay at home to protect themselves from the virus.
While these measures have been undertaken to ensure the safety of as many people as possible, for those who suffer from anxiety or depression, they can feel restrictive and scary. Losing out on the things that are enjoyable, from going to the gym or meeting up with friends, can make daily life even more of a challenge, and some might find it suffocating staying at home all day long, particularly if they are alone or have tense family relations.
In addition to this, the crisis itself can make some people feel very anxious and overwhelmed, which is why Public Health England (PHE) recognises the importance of protecting the public’s mental health during this period.
As a result, the government has announced it will give mental health charities an extra £5 million to improve and expand their offerings.
Mental health minister Nadine Dorries was reported by the BBC as saying: “For those who already suffer with anxiety or other mental health issues, this may present new and difficult challenges.”
Mental health charity Mind will administer the fund, and will use the finance to boost its online and telephone support services.
Chief executive of Mind Paul Farmer stated: “We are facing one of the toughest ever times for our mental wellbeing as a nation. It is absolutely vital that people pull together and do all they can to look after themselves and their loved ones, when we are all facing a huge amount of change and uncertainty.”
He suggested staying in touch with friends and family; getting natural light and fresh air; having a good diet and taking plenty of exercise to help maintain positive mental health.
The government also suggested talking about worries; getting enough sleep; limiting media coverage of the outbreak; only looking at credible sources; creating a new daily routine; finding different things you enjoy within the house; keeping your mind active; getting outside once a day or opening the windows for fresh air; and focussing on the present.
Those struggling to deal with their anxiety, obsessive-compulsive habits, phobias, low moods and panic attacks during this period will find online mindfulness therapy particularly useful at this time.
Mindfulness practices remind participants to stay focused on the present, bringing attention to the thoughts, feelings and emotions one is currently experiencing to avoid worrying about the future or things out of their control.