We are all facing a unique situation, something none of us planned for or ever thought would have to face. We are being told to self-isolate and this may be making us feel worried and nervous. Not knowing when these restrictions may end is causing panic and for some, despair. It feels like we have lost a sense of freedom to choose and move about freely – loss of independence. So, let’s have a look at what we can get in place for ourselves to get in control of our mental health and well-being.

First things first, learn more about our bananas and doughnuts to see if your well-being is getting everything it needs!

Having to stay at home for a prolonged period can bring its own difficulties. Regardless of being at home with or without our families (or whoever we live with) can be frustrating, lonely and might lower our mood. The lack of space or access to a garden adds another challenge. More than ever, we need to look after ourselves and get the support we need. It is important to take care of our body and mind.

Accept the way you are feeling, it is okay to feel not okay – as long as we can begin to do things to help ourselves!

Anxiety can have quite an impact on our body. You may notice your heart rate increasing, your breathing is heavier, you are shaking etc. In moments like this –

take a deep breath in through your nose, hold and count backwards from 10, breathe out from your mouth.

Get focused by distracting yourself. There are several grounding and distraction techniques that can help you take your mind off your anxiety and low mood resulting in uplifting your spirit.

Like this one; Looking around and listing the following in your head

We might think that spending more time at home is great, but with no commute or preparation from leaving the house and returning, there can be a lot of free time that can be filled with activities that can have a brilliant impact on our mental health, our bananas. At the same time, we could fill our time with things that will have a negative impact…like our doughnuts.

It is incredibly important to keep a routine – this helps keep a positive perspective and ‘things’ as normal as possible. Keep yourself busy with activities like cooking, reading, online learning and watching films. Local colleges may have some free distance learning courses – something you may wish to try.

There are lots out there – personal training videos, music, yoga, cooking tips etc. Also, information on DIY, art and crafts – go try something new!

Creating a Well-being Routine

Sometimes, it helps to write things down so we have put together a ‘Shopping List’ for you to write down what you do in The Arthur Ellis Five a Day. We have also put together a handy schedule for you to map out when you can fit them in to build your positive bananas around work, school or other commitments you may have.