HALF of adults say they are more worried during this current lockdown than the first.
A survey commissioned by Public Health England (PHE) at the start of the current government restrictions has revealed the impact the pandemic is having on adults’ mental wellbeing.
Research found that 49 per cent felt that the pandemic has impacted negatively on their mental health and wellbeing.
Nearly half said they had been experiencing more anxiety, with 44 per cent suffering more stress, 46 per cent low mood and 34 per cent having trouble sleeping over the course of the pandemic.
But three in five say they feel hopeful about the future, and 75 per cent report they are planning to take or have taken steps to look after their mental wellbeing with exercising regularly, eating well and talking more to family and friends being the main actions.
To support people throughout the latest lockdown, PHE has launched the Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign to equip adults with tips and advice to look after their mental health and wellbeing and support others such as family and friends.
It encourages people to get a free NHS-approve plan from the Every Mind Matters website.
By answering five questions, adults will get a personalised action plan with practical tips to help them deal with stress and anxiety, boost their mood, sleep better and feel more in control.
Coventry, Rugby and Warwickshire North Clinical Commissioning Group chair Sarah Raistrick said: “This last year has been extremely challenging and no doubt will have had some impact on everyone’s mental health and wellbeing.
“Given the rise in cases, additional hospital admissions and national lockdown it is expected that people may feel more anxious, stressed and experience low moods. There is support available from both the NHS and local organisations who can help support you and give you advice on how to help manage your mental health and wellbeing. If you feel you need support, please look at the contacts below and see what is out there to suit you, contact your GP or local mental health support organisations.
“There are online resources available from the Every Mind Matters website which provides practical tips and support on how to look after your own and your family’s mental wellbeing. It is important to also remember the positive, it is extremely positive to see that over 4 million people have received their first vaccine. However, it is vital, even if you have had your first dose, you continue to follow the government guidelines, wear a mask, wash your hands regularly, stay at home unless for essential journeys and keep at least 2 metres apart from other people to help keep control of the virus and by doing this we can look forward to a brighter future.”
Visit www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters for more information.
