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Looking after your own mental health, whether you are a carer or not, is really important, especially if you are unable to get out due to the current circumstances. Read our tips for staying well and looking after your wellbeing during this time.


Talk about your worries

It is important that you talk about your worries to someone you trust, like a friend, relative, neighbour or an organisation. You can call us (Carer Support Wiltshire) on 0800 181 4118 to talk about your caring role, or just for a friendly voice at this time (Monday – Thursday 9:30am – 4:30pm, Friday 9:30am – 4:oopm).

You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 24/7 to talk about anything you’re going through at this time.

Set up a buddy system

Setting up a buddy system is a good idea. Arrange to text or call someone daily at a set time. Looking out for each other is a way of supporting one another as well as giving you both a sense of well-being – helping other people can make you both feel better! It might also help to video chat, you can arrange a pub quiz with a few friends or just have a virtual coffee morning together from your own home.

Looking after yourself mentally and physically

If you’re stuck at home, there are still ways in which you can look after yourself physically and mentally. You can make a timetable to do gentle exercises throughout the day, such as a ‘brisk stair walk’, making sure you hold onto the rails, of course. Or, simply get up and walk around your home whilst singing or humming your favourite songs, maybe even dance a little! Music can have a very positive impact on your wellbeing.

Start a journal

Starting a journal is another way you can take some time for yourself. Writing your thoughts down on paper can help to reduce stress and anxiety. There are no rules to writing a journal or writing your thoughts and feelings down on paper; you might even want to record a voice memo/journal or use a note taking app on your phone. Drawing is also something that can be very therapeutic and can take your mind off things for a few moments. Try looking out of the window and picking a tree or a bird to draw. You might surprise yourself with how good you are!

Remember you are not alone. Find more organisations and resources that can help you with your mental health at this time:

Mind has some great resources on caring for someone else with mental health issues, as well as looking after your own.

The Silver Line is a free confidential helpline providing information, friendship and advice to older people, open 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

CALM has a free helpline and webchat for those who are down or are struggling and want to talk to someone. They are open 5pm – midnight, 365 days a year.

The Blurt Foundation has some great, friendly resources on depression and low mood, and how to cope.