As lockdown fatigue settles in, it may feel like there is no end in sight.
Not being able to see friends and family can leave us feeling isolated, and without our support network we can struggle to cope with negative thoughts.
Many of us are juggling work with home schooling or other caring responsibilities, and that can drain our emotional resources leaving us little time or energy for looking after our own wellbeing.
But mental health charity Norfolk and Waveney Mind says reaching out to other people is a really key way we can look after our wellbeing, and that of our friends, family and neighbours during lockdown.
One man, who wishes to remain anonymous and is being support by the charity, said: “I can isolate myself when I am struggling, so it's really helpful when friends and family ask how I am doing, or offer me some distraction by telling me how their day has been.
“It reminds me I am cared for and helps get me out of my head for a bit."
With face-to-face support on hold for now, Norfolk and Waveney Mind is continuing to offer virtual support and is running online social groups via Zoom several days a week.
The charity’s social development manager Sharon Pitt said: “Our online groups are a chance for people to have a relaxed chat and make friends, as well as find out how to get more support if they need it.
“Everyone’s welcome, so email social.development@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk if you’d like to give them a try.”
Grotty weather and dark evenings can make it harder to get out of the house, but if you’re able to, it’s a great idea to fit a quick walk or jog around the block into your daily routine.
Spending time in nature has proven benefits for our wellbeing, and being physically active helps reduce stress and anxiety.
If you’re shielding or self-isolating, being active around the home can also help lift your mood.
If you’re still struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to do it alone – here are some ways you can get support.
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If you need urgent help you can call the 24-hour First Response helpline on 0808 196 3494 for immediate advice and support
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You can talk to the Samaritans any time on 116 123
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REST is a new community space that gives you the support you need, when you need it. Find out more at restnorwich.co.uk
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Find out more about Norfolk and Waveney Mind’s services and support at norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk
A virtual conference focusing on mental health, run by the Eastern Daily Press, will be held on Friday, February 12.
Open Up will see a series of virtual workshops, interviews and debates take place online with people being offered the opportunity to watch the sessions free of charge.
The event comes a year after the first Open Up conference, which took place at the former Open charity venue last March.
Open Up is run in conjunction with Norfolk County Council, Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk & Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group and Mind Norfolk and Waveney.
The event will begin at 8.30am with a 30-minute session exercises at home and finish at 4pm and people will be able to log in and out depending on the sessions of most interest to them.
To sign up for the free event visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/open-up-tickets-138246449853
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