We all have mental health, and looking after this at times of loneliness and isolation is important. These are some simple ways you can deal with feeling lonely or isolated during lockdown.
- Pray. Light a candle, if safe, and pray for hope, faith and strength to keep loving and caring for each other during this time of struggle.
- Talk about how you feel. This may be difficult if you are self-isolating, but do use the telephone, internet, and social media.
- Focus on the things that you can change, not on the things you can’t.
- Look after yourself – physically, emotionally, spiritually. Plan in things that you enjoy at regular intervals during the day – a TV programme, a phone call, a book, a favourite dish, a game.
- Look after others. Even if only in small ways, but do what you can: a smile, a kind word, writing a letter or an email.
If you need to talk to someone, please do
These are tough times, so it’s understandable to feel down about it, but there is no need to suffer alone.
If you need someone to talk to, call:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
- Headspace on 1800 650 890
Further Resources
Some further resources, including downloadable reflections, are available on the Church of England Website
https://www.churchofengland.org/resources/mental-health-resources