As the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be felt across the UK and the world, many people are now feeling the effects of these uncertain and worrying times.
- The mental side of COVID-19
2020 was an unprecedented year for us all. Whilst restrictions are being relaxed and things are gradually heading back to how they used to be, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on mental health.
The Mental Health Foundation - This link opens in a new browser window has reported that only 37% of people now report that they feel worried about being able to cope with the uncertainty of the pandemic (down from 53% in March 2020). With the ability to socialise more, the data suggests that young people ages 18-24 are coping better with the stress of the pandemic.;
However, the proportion of people reporting they were coping well has fallen slowly and steadily, from 73% in April 2020 to 62% in June/July 2021 and those with a pre-existing mental health condition were less likely than UK adults generally to be coping well (34%).
Don’t forget that it’s ok not to be ok and if you’re struggling, there are plenty of resources out there to help. You’ll be able to find helpful links in the enhanced ‘Where to get help’ module.
- The financial side of COVID-19
Many people will have been affected financially from this pandemic. It’s important to review and keep an eye on your finances as you may be able to make some savings. There’s still help out there if you need it.
Benefit support – for general information regarding the benefits that are available, visit the new MoneyHelper - This link opens in a new browser window website. For information for sick or disabled people and carers visit Citizens Advice UK - This link opens in a new browser window. To make sure that you or someone you know is getting support visit the online benefit calculator - This link opens in a new browser window.
Debt support – to help you deal with any debt worry and stress there’s some free expert information and advice available on understanding debt and access to support and solutions. Visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/ - This link opens in a new browser window for more.
- Book your booster jab today
If you’re aged 50 or over or aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts you at high risk from COVID-19, you’ll be offered appointment dates from 182 days (six months) after the date of your second dose. Visit the NHS website - This link opens in a new browser window for more information and to book an appointment.
- Managing long COVID
Everyone’s individual experience of COVID-19 and their recovery will be unique, so there’s no ‘one size’ fits all approach but we’ve provided some helpful tips together on how to manage long COVID.
- Rest – your body needs time to recover;
- Pace yourself – try small amounts of light activity, little but often;
- Keep a daily routine – sticking to this will help with sleeping, eating, good quality rest and activities;
- Look after your mental health – avoid self-criticism and pushing through fatigue. Accept your fatigue is real and difficult to understand and live with but you can make changes to help with your symptoms; and
- Work or study – ask your employer or place of study if you can have a flexible/phased return which may be helpful. It will give you more opportunities for shorter days and for rest.
