From where we work to what we can buy at the shops, coronavirus has turned many aspects of our lives upside down over the past weeks.
The change in routine combined with added worries about health and job security can really take its toll on our mental health.
There is lots of support out there to help you through this difficult time. We’ve listed some information sources and apps below, but if you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, reach out to your GP for further support.
INFORMATION
Anxiety UK
As well as a lot of useful information and tools to manage anxiety, this charity also has a specific section about anxiety and coronavirus.
Mind
From sharing personal mental health stories to information on the different types of psychiatric medicine, Mind is a wealth of information and advice about all mental health issues.
Get Self Help
Though not the fanciest website, there are many downloadable resources with exercises to help you understand and shape your mental health.
Mental Health Foundation
From podcasts and videos to inspiring stories, there’s lots of content on the Mental Health Foundation’s website to support your wellbeing.
Rethink mental illness
This site has lots of useful information on mental health generally as well as content specifically around coronavirus and mental health.
APPS
Chill panda
chillpanda.co.uk
Using your heart rate, Chill Panda suggests breathing exercises or light exercise to suit your mood and help you relax.
Cove
Finding the right words to express how you feel can be hard. Cove takes a different approach and helps you create music to reflect emotions. You can share your creations with people or store it in your personal journal.
Headspace
One of the best known meditation apps out there, Headspace is great for those who are new to meditation and want to learn more about it. The 10-day intro course is free, but after it’s £9.99 a month or £49.99 if paid annually.
Happify
Happify uses a mixture of different exercises and games to help you evaluate your mood and practise techniques to help you boost your wellbeing.
7 Cups
Sometimes you just need to talk – and that’s where 7 Cups might be helpful. It calls itself “the world’s largest emotional support system” with trained volunteers ready to listed. Conversations are anonymous, confidential and the service is free.