Wellbeing During the Pandemic
Where to begin...
It has been such a difficult year for everyone. The NHS have worked tirelessly to care for us, organisations have pivoted to adjust to working online and the uncertainty of the pandemic has caused a rise in mental health issues. I found myself feeling guilty for struggling mentally as I have a home and a job when others don't but stress and anxiety is all relative.
During the first lockdown I'm sure there was an assumption that remote working would be a nice change and during the summer months it was a lot easier. As someone that is clinically vulnerable I have been shielding for a total of 10 months now, its not easy. The main difficulty is finding a work life balance when you're working in your living space and feeling isolated from your friends, family and co-workers. Please see my well-being top tips listed below:
1) Reach out to others
Just talk to your friends and try to steer the conversation away from negative topics
2) Go for a walk
Take regular breaks from the computer & get some fresh air
3) Exercise
I'm not great at doing this myself but physical exercise and breathing exercises are good for relaxing.
4) Read
My favourite author is Caitlin Moran and I find that once I sit down with a book it calms my mind.
5) Be creative
Creativity is key! Find something that keeps you occupied and happy (preferably away from the computer).
6) Do what you feel like doing
This was a big lesson for me, if you feel like binge watching Netflix and eating chocolate - do it! This is an usual time for everyone and you need to look after yourself.
7) Remind yourself that it is okay to be anxious
Everyone is feeling out of control right now because we can't plan ahead, it's okay to feel anxious.
8) Make someone else's day
Send a message to someone to make them smile, just something simple like that can really make their day when they are struggling.
Given that we are still navigating through the ever-changing regulations of the pandemic there needs to be additional support for public sector workers. Teachers and students are struggling with remote learning and if this continues throughout the academic year there will need to be structured support to help with the impact of this constant uncertainty.