THERE’S been a spike in demand for help with the psychological effects of Covid through a trailblazing service, the Sunday National has learned. January is traditionally a tough month for mental health, but combined with a level 4 lockdown, many more people are now seeking support. At the country’s first Psychological Resilience Hub – a virtual “first aid” service based on that established after the Manchester Arena terror attack – trained clinicians are not only dealing with an increase in cases, but an increase in the number of people presenting with more serious signs of anxiety and depression. Dr Lynne Taylor says it’s not unexpected. Nor is the 220% increase in young people showing signs of eating disorders over the last six months.
AS employees across the country are being urged to work from home again, a Scottish charity has provided tips to staying mentally healthy whilst doing so.
Scotland was placed into another lockdown earlier this week with a new legal requirement forbidding anyone from leaving their home except for essential purposes. Following the news, the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) shared plenty of useful tips for those who will now need to work from home, or those who are continuing to do so.
Create your morning routine This could be making a cup of coffee. It could be getting dressed (although it may be tempting to stay in your pyjamas, it may not be the best look for those video conference calls!). Whatever it is, setting yourself up for the day can improve your state of mind and psychologically prepare you to start work.