Whether it’s just literally a walk in the park, a run, a dance around the kitchen when nobody’s looking, online yoga. And just do something you enjoy with your body. Do physical activities you enjoyįind out what you enjoy in relation to physical activity. It’s perfectly human to worry, but it’s not always rational. It helps to name things like worries, and then at least the other person can hear and respond to them. But pick a time and place and give yourself the time. It may not be a very good time to speak to somebody if they’re up to their eyes with work or other issues. People who know you better or you’ve a closer relationship with, and also choose the right time to do so. You know, if you are a bit apprehensive or anxious.Ĭhoose who to speak to. What we’d say to the general population is to talk, particularly about your feelings.
HSE Drug and Alcohol Helpline: 1800 459 459Ĭounselling and Psychotherapy – Low Cost Options:Ĭlaire's top tips for lockdown: Talk to people close to you HSE Mental Health Information Line: 1800 111 888 "So particularly for those with existing conditions, like bipolar disorder or even mild to moderate anxiety or depression, it’s important for people to be well aware of themselves and to spot their early warning signs or if they’re beginning to disimprove in any way and catch it before it deteriorates further." They can email us and they can maybe even set up a regular chat or interaction to keep them going. "But even if people are in more rural areas, they can still check in with mental health organisations like Shine. At the moment, all the support is online," says Claire. "In normal times, it’s really important that people connect in directly with the mental health services. In terms of those with pre-existing mental health conditions, the psychotherapist, who also has her own private practice, says it's important for people to check in with themselves.
And if that worry is overwhelming, and it’s really causing issues, it is maybe time to find a professional to address the worries with. "GPs can refer you to a counselling service, and if you’re on a medical card you can access a service for free," she says. If things are feeling really overwhelming right now, Claire recommends speaking with your GP on the phone or in person. The earlier you catch it, the easier it is to address." Mental illness is like any illness in a sense. Women feeling effects of Ireland's lockdown more than men, research shows.51 new coronavirus cases in Ireland as 16 more deaths confirmed.But it is important if something is ongoing to catch it. They might be related to a particular situation that you have to face, like having an unpleasant conversation with a loved one or with a work colleague or boss. "Sometimes, there can be feelings of anxiety. "You might feel stressed, feel a bit blue or down. "There are thoughts and emotions that most people, every now and then, will experience," she explains. So how can you make sure you are looking after your mental health properly during this challenging time?ĭublin psychotherapist and Shine counsellor Claire Hawkes gave us her top tips for self care during this period.įirst of all, she says it's very important to address any serious difficulties you may be having right away. After 8 weeks of strict lockdown, and with restrictions only beginning to ease, many people are starting to feel the strain of social distancing and uncertainty about employment, childcare and the health of loved ones.