We had so much interest in the positive mental health carer support and advice we issued for live in carers during Mental Health Awareness week.
We aim to continue to promote mental health and wellbeing across our entire community of live in carers, carers at home, our clients and our office staff to help ease stress and anxiety.
As part of our ongoing commitment to support positive mental health and wellbeing we have appointed Wellbeing Champions across the Christies Care teams.
Hannah, our Wellbeing specialist, has put together an invaluable resource bank of information that covers many of the issues some of us have been facing, particularly during lockdown.
We’ve looked at how poor mental health affects the mind and chosen some appropriate sources of support and information to provide a toolkit to enhance your wellbeing and your ability to live life to the full – whether you are isolating as a live in carer, visiting as an hourly carer, receiving care in your own home or working from home.
How are you feeling?
It’s an important question to ask, Coronavirus has caused disruption and uncertainty for everyone throughout the world and it means we are all experiencing new emotions. Sometimes a situation can feel overwhelming, you might be worrying more than usual or finding it hard to adjust to a new set of challenges. Make some time to explore and understand what you need. There is help available. Let us help you find it.
There are many free and engaging resources available across a range of apps and activities, so why not give some of these a try and discover which tools and strategies work for you.
Every Mind Matters
Learn more about yourself with the help of the NHS Every Mind Matters campaign which offers practical tips and advice on how to relax and enjoy your life more.
Try the interactive Mind Plan quiz for suggested ways to rethink your lifestyle and reframe your thoughts.
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/your-mind-plan-quiz/
Or have a go with the How Are You quiz? A tailored plan that suits you and your lifestyle
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/how-are-you-quiz/
The NHS also has a brace of brilliant apps to choose from, everything from stress busting meals to improving life style and sleep advice. Have the help you need on your mobile device whenever you need it
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/apps/
Creativity is a great stress reliever
Discovering new creative and entertainment channels is a great way to ease stress and boredom. Whilst lockdown may have caused many museums to close their doors for now, their treasures are still very much in reach with many hosting virtual tours.
This helpful link provides a host of activities to do for all ages. Under art, film and video – Christies Care clients and carers alike might like to see the live stream from 13 zoos or to take a virtual visit to some of London’s top art galleries.
Working with people living with Dementia can present challenges, especially when our routines are disrupted or restricted. Helpfully, Alzheimers.org have compiled a fantastic range of rewarding and purposeful activities for all, including specific suggestions for those suffering with Alzheimer’s/Dementia to help pass the time.
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/coronavirus-activity-ideas-people-living-dementia
Mencap also has some helpful advice to support someone who has a learning disability including planners and timetables which can make caring for people with a learning disability easier to manage.
https://www.mencap.org.uk/advice-and-support/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-ways-keep-busy
Whether you are providing live in care, receiving care in your own home or working from home, it’s important to remain active and purposeful. Try some of these ideas for fun and useful things to do both inside and outside in the garden to ensure you get the most out of your daily routine.
https://www.scie.org.uk/files/care-providers/coronavirus/keeping-busy-at-home-activities.pdf
