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Mental Health and Wellbeing
If you are feeling anxious, worried or overwhelmed at the moment then that is perfectly normal.
You may be worried about your health, the health of your loved ones, concerned about money or feeling stressed at home.
The good news is that there are lots of things that we can do to look after our emotional health, even at this time.
Most of the ideas don't cost anything and we can start many of them right now.
We've collected together a list of websites, support lines, videos and apps with some great tips to help you to look after your emotional health.
Resources for use with children
Coronavirus: A book for children A free digital book for primary school children about the Coronavirus and measures to control it. Illustrated by Axel Scheffler (The Gruffalo) with input from Professor Medley, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Children's Guide to Coronavirus: this guide, produced by the Children's Commissioner aims to answer children's questions about Coronavirus and provides suggestions about staying safe and active.
Mindheart.co.uk have produced a short book suitable for KS1 children, designed to offer the opportunity for children to discuss and process their emotions in relation to COVID-19
'Someone I know has Coronavirus' is just one example of free resources available at https://www.elsa-support.co.uk/category/free-resources/coronavirus-support
https://gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-supporting-children-and-young-peoples-mental-health-and-wellbeing
Information and support for parents and carers in supporting children and young people in relation to COVID-19, includes access to parenting coaches online. Section for Top Tips for foster carers and adoptive parents during this difficult time.
Boosting your emotional wellbeing
Evidence suggests there are 5 steps you can take to help improve your mental health and wellbeing, these are connect, be active, take notice, keep learning and give. You'll be pleased to know that you can still do these 5 steps, even from your own home.
Spend time developing and nurturing relationships with friends, family, neighbours and colleagues. Befriending services can help support you if you are feeling lonely and isolated, find out more about befriending services in Derbyshire.
Take a look at the Time Swap Scheme if you are looking for ways to connect with others. The scheme encourages local communities to share their skills and talents.
Try to find an activity that you enjoy, and that keeps you active, such as walking, cycling, running. evidence shows that an improvement in your physical health can help improve your mental health.
Being more aware of the present moment, the world around you and your own feelings and thoughts can help you to positively change how you are feeling about life.
Learning new skills can boost confidence and give you a sense of achievement.
Helping others, saying thank you, or giving someone a smile can help to improve your self-esteem and improve your emotional health.