It is in times like these where we need to take extra care when it comes to our mental health. Here are tips on how you can protect your family's mental health during the lockdown.

Address the situation

Being honest with yourself and those around you is crucial to prevent a mental breakdown. It is not only important for you to observe your own emotions during this time, but also those of your children if you are in lockdown with them. Allow yourself or your loved ones to express why they feel that way without demonizing or interrupting them. Feelings of anxiety and stress when it comes to the effects of coronavirus are common but speaking them through it can be helpful.

Keeping a positive outlook

While it is easy for any of us to succumb to negative thoughts, it is always important to focus on a positive outlook. Participating in activities that can help boost your family's morale is important. It is possible where what may work for one person may not work for another. Therefore, allow your loved ones to explore what keeps them calm and have occasional activities such as a family date night. The aim is to encourage a positive outlook during this difficult time. 

Taking a break from our screens

It is easy to reach for our phones or the remote to bury ourselves in Netflix, but it is also crucial to take a break and participate in an activity that does not involve scrolling through a screen. The current lockdown regulations do allow for exercise such as running to be done outside of your home to give you a bit of a breather, this could also mean taking a stroll as a form of workout. Encourage your loved ones to engage in an activity that they prefer to help them break away from the tv and social media that can be draining at times.

Maintain a structured day

Having a structure to each day can prevent you from feeling like things are spiralling out of your control. It can also help keep people calm, knowing that there is something that they can do throughout the day. These don't have to be time-consuming tasks, or a day filled with activities for every hour, so long as you plan something for the day and execute it. Always remember to maintain a routine by waking up at the same time and going to bed at the same time to avoid having your days feel like they are blending into each other.

Keep social by calling your loved ones to check up on how they are doing and remember to breathe. You staying at home is already playing a part in flattening the curve.