Mental Health and Wellbeing during Covid-19 Pandemic

There’s no denying that the past few months have been difficult for everyone, but for many different reasons. There have been unprecedented changes made within the workplace, schools and almost all public spaces – not to mention the impact on the NHS. Whatever your situation during the pandemic, there are reasons why you may have suffered from poor mental health and wellbeing. 

Humans are social creatures, so it’s no wonder that lockdown had an impact on mental health & wellbeing. The lack of contact with family, friends and others in the community is difficult for most individuals. There are a whole host of different feelings that have surfaced during the pandemic. Ranging from common feelings such as boredom, frustration, loneliness to more severe feelings of low mood, worry and anxiety. Feeling concerned about your finances, your health or the health of those close to you could also exaggerate these feelings – they may come and go, but for some, the feelings can become overwhelming. 

For many people, this is the first time they have ever experienced significant mental health problems. Or have become more aware of how to protect their mental health in times of crisis. There are others who already had a diagnosis before lockdown and may now be experiencing more severe symptoms or have found new coping strategies during this time. 

A survey carried out by Young Minds showed that 83% of young people reported that their mental health had become worse during the lockdown. Despite the rise in awareness of mental health, 82% of Brits have reported suffering from issues such as continuous low mood, anxiousness, low self-esteem or hopelessness during lockdown (BUPA), with almost half (44%) saying they had not told anyone. Citing reasons such as – not wanting to be a burden on another during a time when there are so many worries for everyone or not feeling that their ‘problems’ were important enough to seek professional help. 

It is important, as the lockdown restrictions change, to try not to focus on the restrictions and instead focus on the different ways you can communicate with friends and family. Create a new daily routine with a focus on your wellbeing. Reading or learning something new (if you have the time) is a good way to focus your mind. Ensure that you are getting enough rest and time to relax or practice meditation. 

One of the most important things to remember is that it is OK to feel unsure and even have negative feelings at times, however, it is important that if these feelings do not pass that you seek help. We must encourage prevention but also advise people to seek help before they reach crisis.

As the restrictions begin to ease, people may experience feelings of fear, anxiety, stress and low mood as the ‘new normal’ approaches. It is important to understand that we should not compare ourselves with others during this time, everyone is different and has their own fears about the Coronavirus. Be aware of others and be honest about your own restrictions whilst coming to terms with the ‘new normal’. 

Fear and anxiety may become a common feeling as the restrictions lift and life outside of our home resumes. To cope with these feelings here are some tips:

• Control what can be controlled – we can’t control everything in our lives, but there are things you can control to help yourself to feel better. 
• Talk to your boss or colleagues – Speak with work to find out what precautions they have in place, make arrangements to take anything with you that might make you feel more comfortable
• Go at your own pace – Everyone feels differently about the lifting of the restrictions, it is important to do what you feel comfortable with and don’t be pressured by others.
• Try something new everyday – Try to challenge yourself to try something new, vary your routine and try to encounter different situations when you can. 

Before the pandemic, there were a number of campaigns to increase awareness of mental health. We all have mental health, and just the same as physical health it can be good or bad at times. As the stigma of mental health has decreased over recent years, more and more people understand or are willing to listen. Providing an opportunity for people to express how they feel without fear. It is more important than ever to reach out to those around you, whether you are experiencing mental illness or whether you suspect someone close to you might be. 

If the feelings become overwhelming it would be a good idea to seek help from a professional. At Inspired Equine Learning we can work with adults and children to reduce stress, anxiety and depression as well as helping to manage emotional issues – with the added benefit of being outside. As things keep changing at the moment it is important to take some time to manage your emotions and feelings. Interacting with our horses really helps you to gain a deeper understanding of yourself.