Mental health and social connection — historical guidance

Archived pandemic information. Read the original publication in its historical context.

Balanced routines, manageable activities and social connection can support wellbeing during uncertainty. The source suggests balancing enjoyable activities, tasks that provide achievement, and opportunities for closeness. Large tasks can be divided into manageable parts when motivation or energy is low. Uncertainty may feel especially difficult alongside additional healthcare needs.

Recognizing escalating thoughts and considering evidence can help manage worry. Persistent interference with daily life warrants professional support. It distinguishes current problems that allow practical action from hypothetical future concerns. Scheduling a later period to consider worries may keep them from interrupting valued activities. Past coping strategies and present-focused distractions can also be useful.

Isolation means limited contact; loneliness describes distress about disconnection. Pandemic disruptions can reduce valued support. SCI does not automatically make someone more vulnerable to isolation, but depression and anxiety are more prevalent, and reduced caregiver or peer access can compound difficulties.

Concerning changes in mood, anxiety, sleep, substance use or thoughts of harm warrant professional help. The relevant threshold is whether symptoms concern the person or those close to them, rather than a single universal pattern.

Physical health, predictable routines, social contact and reliable information can help support wellbeing. Sleep, nutrition and activity can influence capacity to cope with stress. Limiting worry triggers and using reputable information may reduce strain, while regular meal, exercise and sleep times provide predictability.