I know things are uncertain right now and we’re all feeling unsettled and insecure, however I wanted to share how I am coping with my Mental Health while getting through this difficult time. I have gone from working my usual job, the children being at school, being able to see family and friends, to it all being stopped. My routine has broken and in turn it has impacted my mental health.
There have been times over the last 2 weeks when I have lost all motivation. I haven’t got dressed; I’ve lay on the sofa not wanting to do anything. My sleep pattern has gone all over the place and I have allowed my mind to wonder away with itself and I have made myself physically ill with worry. There is just no escaping the Coronavirus, its everywhere I look. I am trying to fulfill my role as a coordinator whilst home schooling my 8-year-old and 15-year-old. To say it’s a challenge is an understatement.
I have found that if I set an alarm each morning and try to stick to a routine my days are a little easier. I need structure. So, I feel like I have a purpose. This also helps me to forget the craziness that is happening in the world outside.
I set the children’s workload the night before, so they know what they need to be doing. My teenager is very good at just getting it done, however the 8-year olds attention span doesn’t last too long before he is demanding my attention. I am lucky to have an understanding Employer who gets that being a mum will sometimes break into my working day.
I try to go outside and get fresh air at least once a day, even if its just a cup of tea in the garden. This is also a time for my son to have a ride on his bike and burn off some of that energy. I forget sometimes that this change must be hard for them too. They don’t fully understand the impact Covid19 is having on the world.
I try and remember we are all in this together. I stay connected with my colleagues during the working day (as I would in the office) this includes a daily Video briefing each morning so we all still communicate as a team – and it’s nice to see their faces.
The feelings I have are probably the same as everyone else, we just all deal with them in different ways. I try and envisage what things will be like when this is all over and we can resume normality. Everyone will be happy, pubs/restaurants will be packed, no one will moan they have to go to work, children will fill parks.
Remember:
- Structure
- Routine
- Fresh Air
- Communication
- Its not going to be forever
Most importantly talk. Use your EAP, talk to your partner or spouse, family, friend or your employer. Don’t suffer in silence. Some useful links to support you if you are struggling.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/
https://www.england.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Lisa – Valentine Occupational Health Employee
