MindSpace Stamford column: How to combat lockdown anxiety

In the latest column from MindSpace Stamford, Dr Cassie Petrie talks about how to combat anxiety:

So far, we have introduced you to the Five Ways to Wellbeing and our chairman, Helen, has given you a flavour of her take on them.

But some of us might be feeling that it is just too hard to even know where to start. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by coronavirus, the lockdown and all it is entailing, then this week’s article is for you.

It’s nearly impossible not to be affected by ‘lockdown comparison’. Whether you’re aware of someone else’s apparently seamless home-school, sewing or home-growing projects, it’s hard not to compare. Add a dose of anxiety, whether long-standing or new, and you can be forgiven for feeling downhearted.

Certainly, it has been researched that more of us are feeling anxious, and there is good reason. The social isolation of lockdown, the fear of the virus, the complete change of routine and being cut off from ‘normal life’ is enough to make even the most resilient unsettled. Interestingly though, some of us with existing anxiety are paradoxically feeling improved levels of wellbeing due to the reduction in the pressure of going out and the lack of crowds in social spaces.

For most of us, unsettled and anxious feelings will be manageable. For some, you might be finding your wellbeing is markedly affected, with persistent anxiety and very poor sleep. If this is you, or someone you know, help is here for you. Have a look at the latest MindSpace online activities. Or try the new 24-hour NHS helpline, or call your GP and book an online or telephone appointment.

Wherever you find yourself on the scale of mental wellbeing, we know from science that the Five Ways to Wellbeing can really help. Even if you’re really struggling. Starting small can make a meaningful and positive difference to you.

So, let’s use ‘move’ rather than ‘be active’ this week. If you can get outside, then go for a short walk or pull up some weeds in the garden. Even a bit of housework can get your body moving. Why not give our online yoga a try on a Wednesday morning?

Taking notice might be opening the curtains for the first time in a while, or opening a window and feeling the warmth of the sun or hearing the patter of the rain. Giving doesn’t have to be big - try leaving a post-it note for the delivery person or refuse collectors.

Learning something new doesn’t have to be a new language or black belt in martial arts. Pick up the paper or a magazine and it will give your brain something to focus on and new information to process. Just reading this article will have had a positive impact, we hope.

In the meantime, stay safe and keep going. This will pass and we will be here on the other side for you all.

NHS 24/7 Mental Health Helpline: 0800 001 4331.

Click here to read more of the latest news