Keeping connected, calm and positive

These past few weeks have been pretty strange and unpredictable. Some days can be really good, and others not so good. Feeling anxious and lonely are common feelings, however you should know that you’re not alone in your worries and concerns. So, to help, we’ve pulled together a few ideas to keep you connected, calm and positive.

Stay connected

It can be easy to feel lonely when physically isolated. However, thanks to the internet, there are plenty of ways to stay in touch with family and friends, all while adhering social distancing rules. Staying connected is good for your mental and physical health, and can tackle any feelings of loneliness. Talking with friends and family can help ease any worries you might be feeling, as well as make you feel a bit more positive in general. As well as simple video calls, you can mix things up with online quizzes and parties, or play online video/board games as a fun way to stay connected. Just because we’re socially isolating, that doesn’t mean we should feel alone – use this time to reconnect and reach out to loved-ones, particularly those who might be feeling particularly lonely during this time.

Have a daily routine

Clinical psychologist Desiree Dickerson emphasises the importance of having a routine to help manage anxiety adapt more quickly to the current situation. She recommends creating clear distinctions between your work time and non-work time, both in your head and in your physical workspace, and to work in short bursts with clear breaks to maintain clear thought. You should also take time to do something you enjoy doing that’s not work-related.

Some days you might not keep to your routine, or you might not like having a routine. However, a loose structure of what you’re going to do each day can be really helpful. Making to-do lists of what you want to realistically achieve in the week can also be a useful way of giving each day some structure.

Don’t put pressure on yourself

There’s been a lot of stuff going around on social media saying that now is the best time to be productive and you should learn a new hobby, or start a new workout challenge, or read a book, or write, and the list goes on and on... There seems to be a lot of pressure to be productive during this time, however you don’t always have to be doing something. It’s okay to take a break and have a rest, and you’re not lazy for doing so. There are also going to be some days when you feel like you just can’t do anything, and that’s fine. Being at your most productive is not a priority. Instead, focus on what your body and mind wants and needs.

...and be kind to yourself

How you talk and treat yourself can either help during these difficult times, or amplify your distress. Self-care is important for your mental and physical health, so make sure you give yourself time to unwind, exercise and eat well. Do what you can, and what you want to do, and don’t be hard on yourself.

Mental health can take a bit of a knock in times like these, but there are many ways to try and prevent this. Psychology Today has listed 9 ways you can improve your mental health, including keeping to a good sleep schedule, positive affirmations, and taking breaks. Mindfulness and meditation has also been found to have positive effects on mental health. Check out some of the best meditation and mindfulness apps, as recommended by experts.

Make the most of your daily exercise

If you’re feeling well, it’s recommended that you take some time out of your day to exercise. This can be a home workout, yoga, walking, running, cycling, and more. There are numerous health benefits to exercising, but for mental health, a little exercise can help relieve stress, help you sleep better and improve your general mood. Doing daily exercise is also a good reason to leave your house and get some fresh air for a short while.

Have achievable academic goals

You may be having some academic worries, which, on top of the current situation, is another extra added stress. Keeping to a routine and having small, achievable goals can both help with your studies. In addition, Goldsmiths has put in place support, including a revised system for results, resists and assessments, as well as changes to extenuating circumstances in light of of COVID-19. Also, the NHS has some self-help tips that you might find useful for coping with stress.

Get support if you need it

If you feel like you need support, talk to a health worker, counsellor or dedicated service. Goldsmiths Wellbeing Advisers are available to contact by phone or email during normal College opening hours. You can also contact a Campus Support Officer for out-of-hours assistance. In addition, Goldsmiths has a list of emergency and crisis support, should you need it, and GOV.UK has an online tool that directs you to a range of support services.