With over a third (37 per cent) of those surveyed citing they are worried about their mental health, a new phase of the Scottish Government’s Clear Your Head campaign has launched to help people cope.
As covid cases locally and in Scotland remain high, the main things cited as causing worry include:
People close to me (e.g friends and family etc.) getting it
Me getting covid
Meeting up with other people
In addition, almost a third of people are worried about finances, over a quarter of those in work worried about returning to the office, with a quarter worried about job security.
The Clear Your Head campaign promotes practical things that can help alleviate worry which include taking slow deep breaths to calm the mind if feeling overwhelmed, spending time outdoors and enjoying nature to help feel calmer, doing something to feel good such as catching up with family and friends for a healthy lunch outdoors, and staying active to help to boost mood.
The campaign, running across TV, cinema, radio and online, signposts sources of help and advice for people who need to talk to someone about how they’re feeling including NHS24, We Are With You, Breathing Space, SAMH and Samaritans.
Minister for Mental Wellbeing and Social Care Kevin Stewart, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has had a big impact on people’s mental health and wellbeing, with the high number of cases in Scotland right now perhaps adding to people’s worry.
“The Clear Your Head campaign highlights the practical things people can do to help them feel better and cope in these changing times.
“It’s important that that we continue to take things at our own pace. Remember support is there if you need to speak to someone about how you’re feeling.”
To find other tips to help you cope, visit clearyourhead.scot
