How Covid-19 affects mental health during lockdown
Having been in lockdown for just over a month in the UK has had an effect on our health.
Being quarantined at home gives many positive traits such as time to relax and focus on ourselves. However, all this free time can start to affect one’s mental well-being no matter the age.
For some individuals, quarantine is an opportunity to bring families closer, however, for some living alone can be a challenge. Having that form of interaction and knowing that there is someone physically there, gives a sense of relief.
For those isolating alone the only form of communication is through social media or a stroll to your local grocery store.
What about the elderly?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the government have regulated that people over the age of 65 are at high risk of illness from the Coronavirus and are advised to seek isolation through this lockdown.
As the elderly are at most vulnerable due to this outbreak, staying indoors means no contact with family, friends and neighbours. This can gradually develop mental health issues such as depression and anxiousness.
Interviewing Winifred Curtis, aged 89 on living alone in lockdown.
How does it feel to isolate alone?
How can isolation differ for someone who is used to living alone?
Curtis explains, that being elderly and living alone during lockdown can be tough at times, as there is no one to communicate with. Although people are just a call away, she misses psychical interaction. This pandemic has had an increasing effect on her day to day life. As she is used to living alone, she feels restricted. She exclaims that the only form of communication is through her TV.
Stay Connected
Communication is a key in surviving the lockdown. Staying connected with your loved ones will make a drastic change to their day, especially for people isolating alone. For the majority, a little phone call goes a long way. If you feel low, stressed or anxious reach out to a friend, in times like this support is needed.
Helplines
If you are in a need to speak to someone who is not aware of your mental well-being the use of helplines and listening services are a good way to communicate your feelings.
Samaritans – Support for distress and despair.
Call 116 123 or email jo@samartains.org
The Mix – Support for under 25s.
Call 0808 808 4994
Anxiety UK – Support for individuals that are diagnosed with anxiety.
Call 03444 775 774
SANE – Emotional support, guidance and information for people affected by mental illness.
Call 0300 304 7000
Our mental health is important.
(Image source: Photo by Polina Zimmerman on Pexels.com)
WNOL 
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