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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Health
Nadia Breen

Aware NI tips for looking after your mental health during lockdown

Aware NI has given a list of tips on dealing with anxiety and uncertainty during the Coronavirus pandemic.

The depression charity for Northern Ireland has outlined five steps to look after yourself during the unprecedented times facing us at the moment with social distancing. 

Step 1: Connect - Keep in touch with family, friends and colleagues. Use phone calls, text or video apps like Facetime and Whatsapp. 

Step 2: Be Active - Play games with the kids, join an online yoga class or take a walk outside while keeping a 2m distance. Walking and working out are some of the best things to improve your mental health and immune system.

Step 3: Give - Caring for others can help your own mental health. Offer support to a friend or neighbour who is in isolation. 

Step 4: Keep Learning - Read up on something that interests you. Read books, watch documentaries or take up a new craft.

Step 5: Take Notice - Notice the beauty around you, feel the sun on your skin, listen to the birds and breathe. If you are feeling overwhelmed or your thoughts are racing, take deep breaths - in for seven seconds and out for eleven.

Aware's face to face services are temporarily on hold but a support line is operating on Monday to Friday from 11am to 3pm. To avail of this call 07548530931 or 07340488254.                                      

For more information, visit the Aware NI website.

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