During COVID-19 Pandemic

The news coverage and ongoing situation caused by the COVID-19 virus may cause stress and anxiety to some.

The World Health Organisation has issued the following advice:

• The COVID-19 virus has affected people from many countries and is continuing to do so. It is not connected to any particular ethnicity or nationality. We must try to be thoughtful and kind to those who are affected, wherever they may have contracted the virus.
• These people are not “COVID-19 cases/families” or “victims”. Anyone can contract it. They are all people who have had or are being treated for the COVID-19 virus. After recovering from the illness, they can expect to return to their lives as before.
• If you feel anxious or distressed by the situation, it is wise to limit the amount you read or listen to news about Covid-19. Also limit the time you spend searching for details. Instead, just watch for updates once or twice a day at set times. Choose information that gives you practical steps to help keep yourself and community safe and healthy. It is important to ensure you are getting updates from a reliable news source, not sensational online sites and try to avoid rolling news.
• Remember to thoroughly protect yourself when you need to and be supportive to those around you. Assisting others in need can be not only helpful to them but also rewarding for those helping.
• Try to concentrate on positive stories in your local area; there are a number of people who have recovered quickly or who are using their time to support others. 
• Please respect and appreciate the caretakers and healthcare workers supporting people affected with the COVID-19 virus. They are working tirelessly to help save lives and to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Please view the relevant drop down menus below to support the mental health problems most often encountered.