Update from Rethink Mental Illness – 15 April 2020
Everyone is adjusting to the changes in how we live, work and communicate.
With so much change, we know the news can feel overwhelming right now. That’s why we promise to keep our website up-to-date with the latest information you need to know. This week, we have an update on what the new government guidance on exercise means if you live with mental illness or care for someone who does.
Photo of the week
Thank you to Shabena for sharing your wonderful flower photographs with us. Shabena was originally asked to take photographs of flowers by her local carers forum, to help people self-isolating. We think this beautiful shot will brighten anyone’s day.
Miles for Mental Health
Stay safe, get some exercise and help raise money for vital services. Join our miles for mental health challenge by running a marathon over the course of a month while socially distancing. You can run wherever you like; in your garden, around your living room or while exercising outside.
Supporter Danny has been running up and down his garden. He says: “Exercise has really helped me through this lockdown, and you can now use it to help others. Let’s get through this one step at a time.”
Your tips
“Be kind to yourself if you can. This is an unusual situation, and it’s ok to feel upset or anxious. You don’t have to achieve anything during lockdown, just focus on looking after yourself.”
– Val
“I’m only listening to one coronavirus update each day, and sticking to my normal routine when possible because I have autism. I’m listening to relaxing music 🎧 Reading more books 📚 Praying 🙏🏻 Staying in touch via email etc. Baking. Sitting in the garden. These are the things which are helping me. It’s important not to let anxiety overwhelm us.”
– Pat
“Keeping busy! I’ve been reorganising cupboards and drawers as well as making things out of stuff I have in the house- for example a toiletry holder/box out of an old amazon parcel box and some fabric! – if you type DIY home decor into Pinterest or Google there’s lots of easy ideas”
– Georgie
“I’m doing the Joe Wicks daily workout on YouTube with my son. I am not good at doing exercise normally but have noticed the sense of wellbeing immediately.”
– Dominic