Most of us have never had to live during a global pandemic before. We have never experienced a lock down or how it feels to be isolated in our own homes. Many of us will find the experience very stressful and something we just don’t know how to cope with.

Hopefully some people are finding solace in what we actually can do.

We can exercise, which is known to be good for our mental wellbeing.

We are also allowed to communicate with our friends and family, albeit remotely. Picking up the phone, or trying out a video chat, is a good way to feel more connected.

And sometimes we are finding it is the little things, a new leaf shoot emerging, for example, that can make us smile.

We have collated a few useful links with different versions on how to cope with the mental stress of coronavirus, for different people in society. We hope it helps.

Action for happiness – An all round look at positive things you can do to look after your mental health

Blurt Coronavirus Helpful Hub  – Loads of great resources for managing anxiety, looking at money worries, staying connected and more

Mind’s practical advice for staying at home  – How to take care of your mental health and wellbeing

NHS Top Tips – 12 simple Top Tips for improving your mental wellbeing whilst staying at home.

Creative ways to look after your wellbeing  – MentalHealth.org recommends creativity

5 Simple ways to help a young person having a panic attack – Local Social Enterprise BrightSparks advice for young people

Specific advice, definitions and techniques for young people – Collated by York Family Information Service

How to take your stress levels down – traffic light system – A blog by a Yorkshire business owner and Mum

Learn a relaxation technique – Time to discover mindfulness?

Join a York Men’s online group – York’s MAD-ASS – Men Against Depression, Anxiety And Stress in Society is on online facebook groups for men in the city