Life in lockdown can take its toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing. Ian Boyle, Specialist Complex Needs Worker, shares his top tips for self-care during this challenging time.

Accept that it is very different to our ‘norm’ and the pace of life has slowed down; why not embrace this?

Most of us are working from home, so it is more important than ever to create clear boundaries between work and personal spaces.

“Take a walk outside—it will serve you far more than pacing around in your mind.”

Rasheed Ogunlaru

• At the start and end of the day go out for a walk to simulate the commute from before lockdown, allowing you to help separate work from home.

• Take breaks, especially if you are sitting at a computer all day; in video calls and writing up notes.

• Ensure that you eat and drink enough during the day, as it is easy to forget.

• It is very easy to start a bit early, cut out breaks, miss lunch or eat at the desk/table and work a little bit later, DON’T.  You are no use to anyone if you get ill.

• Don’t be a hero, if you are stacked up ask for help from colleagues and delegate tasks.

• Speak to colleagues, friends or family, it is not healthy to bottle things up, eventually the bottle overflows.

• If you don’t complete all yours tasks today, remember tomorrow is another.

• Smile at others as it is contagious 🙂