Managing anxiety while home-working
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues people face day-to-day.
It’s especially relevant at a time of global pandemic with people being bombarded with health warnings and ever-changing news headlines.
There are a number of physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety, and you may not experience all of them, but can read more about them from the NHS.
But what can you do if you experience an up-surge in anxiety during the current disruption, especially if self-isolating at home?
Do’s
Try talking about your feelings to a friend, family member, health professional or counsellor. You could also contact Samaritans, call: 116 123 or email: jo@samaritans.org
Find a way to do some easy exercise at home, check out our advice on remaining active.
Plan out some fun or new break activities. Cooking is an excellent way to provide a break from work while at home. Take the chance to try new things, making homemade bread, exploring new cuisines.
Search and download relaxation and mindfulness apps or online community apps from the NHS apps library. You can also find calming videos via YouTube such as a crackling wood fire.
If you’re a gamer, arrange with colleagues to meet up in an online game, you don’t all need to be running around doing missions, just hang out if that’s what you want.
Don’ts
Do not try to do everything at once – set small targets that you can easily achieve.
Do not focus on the things you cannot change – focus your time and energy into helping yourself feel better.
Try not to use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling or drugs to relieve anxiety as these can all contribute to poor mental health.
Don’t spend all your time, if you can, within the same 4 walls, even if you just go for a walk around some empty streets, the change in atmosphere and sounds will do you good.