Maintaining psychological well-being during COVID-19

Humans are social creatures so the current advice of reducing social activity goes against our very nature.

As measures to limit our movements become increasingly strict, it is important to make sure our mental health doesn’t take a hit.

The good news is, it doesn’t have to! If you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail so we’ve put together some advice to help you through these tough times.

Top Ten Tips

1. Make your home your sanctuary: You are about to spend way more time at home than anywhere else. Make sure you are surrounded by things that make you happy. Buy a plant or two, light some candles, brighten up your place.

2. Maintain your sleeping routine: It might be tempting to sleep in and go to bed a bit later but sticking to your regular sleeping routine will ensure your mental health doesn’t suffer.

3. Maintain your work routine: If you have to work from home, try to keep regular work hours and take your usual breaks.

4. If you are feeling well, go outside: Unless we go into lockdown you can still go for a walk around your local park.

5. Get an indoor hobby: Is there something you have always wanted to do but haven’t had the time? Now is the time to get into it. Haven’t got any ideas? Here are a few some people have found helpful: fixing up a car or motorbike; knitting a scarf (winter is coming!); painting (e.g., watercolours or paint by numbers – place an order online for supplies now!); puzzles; Lego; colouring books; board games; crosswords; sudoku. These may sound juvenile (or the opposite!) but you never know – you might find a forgotten passion.

6. Workout: Get physical! If you’re afraid of hitting the gym (or your gym has closed), revisit the 80s and exercise at home. YouTube is a goldmine for old-school aerobics videos. Or download a fitness app and follow the guided workouts.

7. Keep in touch with family and friends: Now IS the time to be on your phone. Check in with your family and friends, especially if you live alone and you’re feeling lonely (or if they live alone). Skype a friend and have a coffee date.

8. Download a well-being app: There are heaps of apps that can help keep your mind occupied (or relaxed). Our recommendations? Smiling Mind, Headspace, Happify, and Lumosity.

9. Plan a holiday: This crisis won’t last forever and planning a holiday can often be more fun than the holiday itself. Just don’t book anything yet!

10. Make an appointment with your psychologist: Lawson Psychology is still open for business. Unless you are unwell or being required to self-isolate, we would love to see you at the clinic. If you are unwell or in self-isolation, we would still love to see you via video! Get in touch with our client relationship team to make an appointment. We are here for you.