About the Town Columnist Chelle Clarke talks mental health…

As you’re more than aware, we’ve been going through some unprecedented times lately that has affected the world in a whole load of different ways.  We have the most vulnerable amongst us who have been unable to go out at all, we have those adjusting to limited movement, and we have the wonderful people in many sectors who have literally been keeping the country running whilst we all stay at home safe.  The team at About the Town are sending you all a huge thanks and an abundance of appreciation, we salute you!  

Regardless of your circumstances though, your mental health matters now more than ever.  That is why I have put together a list of some helpful ways you can help take care of your wellbeing right now: 

• Consider how you can safely connect with others: 

Maintaining relationships with people who you love and trust is important for your mental wellbeing.  Reaching out to those people regularly for a chat can really help alleviate feeling of isolation.  Now it’s easier than ever to contact those you love.  You can chat over the phone, have a social distanced chat at the front door, or even a Facetime call.  As I write this today groups of six people are now allowed to meet in an outside space (socially distanced, of course).  As the situation improves, so will the rules and guidelines – keep positive that things will get better!  

• Help and support others: 

Helping others who are struggling could make a big difference to them and may help you feel better too!  If you’d like to volunteer, The Birchwood Centre in Skelmersdale are always looking for helpers!

• Talk about your worries: 

This is a difficult time for everyone and sharing how you are feeling, and the things you are doing to cope, with family and friends can help. If you don’t feel able to do this, there are a range of NHS recommended helplines on their website.

• Look after your physical wellbeing:

Your physical health can have a big impact on how you’re feeling. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, drink enough water and exercise where possible.  There is tons of research to support how exercise can improve your mental wellbeing, even gentle walking has a positive impact on your mood!

• Look after your sleep: 

Try to maintain regular sleeping patterns and keep good sleep practices – like avoiding screens before bed, cutting back on caffeine and creating a restful environment. 

• Manage your media and information intake: 

24/7 news and social media can leave you even more worried. It’s good to know what’s going on, but you can easily overload on media.  Even scrolling through Facebook can be draining after an important announcement.  Try to take a break from it if you can and limit the amount of time you spend reading up on current affairs.  

• If your home schooling, give yourself a break:

Please do not beat yourself up if your home schooling routine is a flop.  Many of us have struggled with this.  If you have children in different year groups, this can be particularly difficult to keep on top of.  Just do you best, don’t compare yourself to any other parents, be as creative as you can with it and just enjoy the time you have with your children.  Children are super resilient, and they will pick it all up again once they return to school.  If all else fails, don’t forget, it’s almost the school holidays!

• Think about creating a new routine: 

Life has changed for us all for a while. Why not think about how you can adapt and create positive new routines?  Engaging useful or meaningful activities such as learning a new skill, or doing something you never normally find time for, can be really uplifting. Focus on your favourite hobby, start a new project or simply take time to relax (things we very rarely get to do in our usual fast paced lives!)  Doing activities that take your mind off the current situation can help offer relief from anxious thoughts and feelings and can really boost your mood!

Stay calm, be wise and be kind!

Chelle x