Horsham psychologist shares tips on how to cope with third lockdown

Many find themselves yet again balancing working from home, home schooling and family life. Many are finding themselves yet again struggling with isolation.

Teachers are yet again having to continually provide home schooling schedules, whilst also managing to teach those children of key workers at the same time.

Many business owners are yet again having to re-evaluate how they operate and make heartbreaking decisions about their business’s futures.

It is important to remember that we may need time to process how we feel about yet another lockdown and restrictions placed upon us. Although we have been here before, it is normal for our brains to respond to the ongoing threat and adversity with fear and anxiety. We may over focus on what is out of our control and observe the classic should dos and must nots in respect to how we feel we are expected to cope.

Small basic things can help us through this difficult time. Looking after our very basic needs in respect to eating well, hydrating ourselves and moving or bodies and connecting with others are key to maintaining our emotional wellbeing.

Trying to focus on what we can control and being able to observe when our brains are focusing on things that are out of our control.

It may be helpful to think about what coping strategies worked well for us during previous lockdowns and whether any changes may need to be made this time around?

Trying to find just small snippets of joy where we can such as a sunny crisp morning walk, tasting an indulgent chocolate, enjoying a film or a video call with loved ones.

It is also important to think about what external sources of support may be needed such as talking to your employer or children’s school if you are finding things overwhelming.

There are many sources of emotional and practical support locally including the Horsham District Council wellbeing hub and the charity Mind’s website.

However, this time we have an important thing – hope. The vaccine is out there and there is a program in place. It may not always feel like it at times, but we are equipped with the resilience to navigate this difficult time.

Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo is a psychologist at Horsham Psychology