& Your Community
Many people, especially those living alone, will be facing a tougher than ever winter due to Covid-19 restrictions. There is a new initiative set up by the Kent Community Foundation, but its principles can be applied wherever you live. The campaign is called ‘Knock and Check’.
You can help save lives this winter. And the way to do this is simple – just 'knock and check' on the elderly and most isolated in your local community. You may knock and check to just say a quick hello, or to collect a little shopping, hand in a book or magazine or to pass on your contact number or information about other support available. You can download the information leaflet here, plus read information on how to ensure you follow government Covid-19 guidance at all times:
Information on the Knock and Check Initiative
Since the outbreak of Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdowns and restrictions that we have all faced, many of us have been facing mental health challenges. For some this is anxiety and fear about the virus, our health, our loved ones, job losses, financial uncertainty and fear for the future.
For some, the issues have come due to isolation and loneliness, being unable to see friends and family, and not having the normal access to everyday support networks. Sadly there is no magic wand, but we can all do small things every day to look after our mental health and to know where to look for support should we need it.
Our lives have a different rhythm at the moment. Some are able to go out to work and carry on with their lives in a near normal way. Some are working from home, on furlough or have been made redundant. Most of us have been isolated from our friends and family. None of it is easy for anyone to cope with.
Loneliness in the pandemic is also a big problem for many of us. The long term impact on your mental health can be hard to manage. Make sure you keep in touch with people regularly.
Use the phone, facetime, zoom, email or social media. It’s not a replacement for that hug, or to be near the people you are missing, but it is a good way to stay close to those that matter.
Try and create a new daily routine, and prioritise your own needs too. Aside from work and the daily chores, read a new book, or watch a new movie.
Google 'relaxation techniques' and try them out, and ensure that you manage to get outside and get some exercise if you can.
If you are struggling, please ask someone for help, there are many organisations out there that are just a call or a click away, and can help with the problems you may be facing:
Mind
The Samaritans
Get support from a mental health charity
Mental wellbeing while staying at home
Loneliness during coronavirus
