Coping under the Second Lockdown
The second lockdown in England is a challenge for many of us. Here we share some simple tips and advice to help you during the period.
The return of England to a state of lockdown from 5th November to December 2nd to protect public health has felt like déjà vu to many. In the spring, the lockdown had a substantial impact on addressing the Covid-19 outbreak and the government will be expecting to see this again. Nonetheless, this new situation will have an affect on the wellbeing of many.
For many people this will mean having less to do for the four week period, not being able to see friends or loved ones or cancelling plans.
Here, we’ve compiled some advice and simple tips to help during this period.
Try having a routine
Establishing a routine and sticking to it can be a big help. A routine can ensure that you have some time set aside for things like going outside, cooking a meal, catching up with friends and family and relaxation. In turn, these things tend to have a positive impact on our wellbeing. And having a routine can reduce stress and help you sleep better. Consequently, having a routine can be enormously helpful.
Don’t get stuck in the house
This lockdown can leave you with fewer reasons to get out of the house but that doesn’t mean you should let yourself get stuck inside all day. The benefits of fresh air, exercise (even just walking) and a change of setting are all key. Each of these factors are important for promoting wellbeing. Getting out on a regular basis can make a positive difference.
Keep in touch
Just like last time, a lockdown can be a lonely period in which its harder to stay in touch with friends or family, or where social contact only takes place through digital technology. The Office for National Statistics has reported that during the first month of the lockdown in the Spring 7.4 million said their wellbeing ‘was affected through feeling lonely’.
Staying in contact with loved ones and friends through phone calls or applications like FaceTime or Zoom can be a good substitute for social contact, even if it often doesn’t stack up to the real thing.
Our Peer Support Project is also designed to help people struggling with loneliness during the lockdown, you can learn more here.
Our online activities are a fun way of meeting others from the comfort of your own home, you can read about them here. You can also read our separate blog on isolation here. Our webinar series can be found here, they address a variety of issues surrounding wellbeing including loneliness.
Together simple things like having a routine, staying in touch with others and regular activity can have a significant impact. At Meridian Wellbeing, we’re providing services and resources to help people better manage during the pandemic. You can take a look at the work we do here.