Coronavirus and your mental health

We know that coronavirus, possibly coupled with worries about appointments or treatment, may mean you are having a hard time mentally. On this page you’ll find tips from our experts and community, as well as guidance from trusted organisations to help you prioritise your own mental health and wellbeing during this time.

Our top tips 

Whether you are staying at home, self-isolating or shielding, these tips might help you deal with the change:

Acknowledge your feelings

It might sound obvious but, however you feel at the moment, take time to acknowledge that. You might feel that everything’s a bit rubbish, you may be dealing with a lot of anxiety, or perhaps it all feels fine – there is no right or wrong here. Understanding how you feel can be the start to processing things and, if you do feel low, feeling better.

Find out as much as you need

You may be happy to go with the flow, or you might feel happier once you know how coronavirus is likely to impact you. You have the right to ask the questions you need and get answers – from your healthcare team; about work and finances; and about where to get support. If you’re not sure where to start, we can help – give our free Helpline a call on 0808 802 8000.

Be careful with the news and social media

Being online can be a great way to feel connected, but it can also feel overwhelming – especially with everything going on at the moment. Be mindful of how you feel after taking in the news, scrolling through Twitter, or reading Facebook posts, and recognise when it’s time to take a break.

Stay connected with people

We know that lots of people feel disconnected at the moment, and you may feel especially lonely if you are having to shield or self-isolate. A text, email or call can make all the difference, to you and the person you’re getting in touch with. Organise a game night over video call, or have everyone make a cup of tea and settle down for a natter. 

Other resources

The NHS has put together some great resources on looking after your mental health and wellbeing:

• Every mind matters >
• Ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing >

Mental health charities have also got some useful resources about taking care of yourself and others. Here are a few we think might help:

• Mind – Coronavirus and your wellbeing >
• Mental Health Foundation – Looking after your mental health >
• SAMH – Coronavirus and your mental wellbeing >
• Time to Change – Supporting someone during COVID-19 >

We are open

Don’t forget that our services are still here for you. Our Forum is a safe online community where you can connect with others and share any worries or concerns you have. There are lots of conversations and tips about managing the impact of coronavirus being shared. 

Join our Forum >

You can also call our free Helpline on 0808 802 8000 (check our opening hours). Our trained staff and volunteers are waiting to talk you through any questions or simply listen to your worries. 

More information and support

We have created an online hub of information about coronavirus and all things cervical – from HPV and cervical screening (smear tests), to colposcopy, cell changes and cervical cancer.

Visit our hub >