Coronavirus and looking after your well-being

We understand that continuous news about the coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) is likely to cause feelings of worry, fear, stress and anxiety among our community. You might feel particularly worried about the impact this virus may have on you or those you care about. We’ve pulled together useful advice from a range of trusted organisations to help you prioritise your own mental health and wellbeing:

• Try to limit the amount of time you spend reading, listening to or watching news stories about Coronavirus, especially if they are causing feelings of anxiety and stress. You could choose a particular point in the day to check in. Letting yourself be open to a continuous stream of news information is likely to feel overwhelming and have an adverse effect on your well-being.
• Rely upon the facts – only read information from trusted sources. This may include information provided on the NHS website, The World Health Organisation website or your Governments website.
• If you’re self-isolating, keep up regular and daily routines, where possible. This may be cleaning, exercising, painting or other activities. RoyalVoluntaryService.org.uk have a range of easy exercises you can do at home.
• Make sure you eat well and stay hydrated. We know that eating the right food and drinking water is really important for both your mental and physical health. To find out more about possible food delivery services, visit our ‘practical tips for self-isolation’ page.
• Check in with yourself - recognise and acknowledge how you feel. Find activities that you enjoy or that you find relaxing and try to get fresh air, when possible! Talk about how you’re feeling with your loved ones and those you trust. You may also find our page on loneliness and isolation helpful.
• Stay connected. If you can’t physically keep connected, use email, social media or mobile phones. Make sure you have a list of contact details for your friends or family, who you may want to chat with. If you’re spending more time online, you may find Mind’s page on online mental health beneficial.

Don’t forget that our Online Support Communities are always there as a safe online space where you can be part of a community, connect with others and share any worries or concerns you may have. Our community have recently been sharing their tips and advice for staying positive during self-isolation.

Also, don’t forget you can always get in touch with our Support and Information Line by ringing 0808 800 0004, emailing us at support@thebraintumourcharity.org or starting a live chat. The Support and Information Line is open Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 5.00pm.

For further information on taking care of your mental health, you may want to visit Mind’s webpage on Coronavirus and your wellbeing, which provides a wealth of information on coping with anxiety, social distancing and self-isolating, providing plans, checklists and information if you have to stay at home or indoors.

The NHS also has some really great resources for looking after your mental health and wellbeing:

• NHS: ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing
• Every mind matters