Deputy Browne urges people to look after their mental health during crisis
FIANNA Fail’s spokesperson for Mental Health, Deputy James Browne TD, is urging people to look after their mental health as the COVID19 health crisis continues.
Deputy Browne said it’s understandable that people are anxious and added that the longer the situation continues the more stressed people will become.
‘There are people who have lost their jobs, have had to shut their businesses, as well as others who are just not coping well with having to limit their social interactions,’ said Deputy Browne.
‘This is undoubtedly a difficult time for everyone in Ireland, and although we all know that we have to pull together for the greater good, this can have a real impact on people’s mental wellbeing,’ he added.
He urged people to ensure they take necessary steps to maintain their mental health as well as their physical wellbeing.
‘Simple things like making sure you get out and get some fresh air and doing a bit of exercise can improve your mood, and it’s important to try and keep your routine as close to normal as possible,’ he said, before also highlighting the importance of getting a good nights sleep.
Deputy Browne also emphasised the need to control the amount of time people spend on social media which can result in ‘information overload’.
‘It’s important to try and balance the amount of time we’re spending on our screens [and] people should also be wary of fake news and stories from non-reputable sources,’ he said.
He also highlighted the importance of only taking guidance from the HSE, medical experts and ‘sound news organisations’.
‘While we have to limit social interactions with other people, no one needs to feel cut off,’ he said.
‘Talking to other people is so important for our mental health [and] phoning, messaging and group chats, using all the various apps and online sites, can keep us in contact with our family and friends,’ he added.
Deputy Browne also emphasised that mental health organisations and charities are continuing to operate their helplines if people require additional supports.
‘We all need to look out for each other over these next few weeks and that means minding our mental health,’ he said.
‘Eating healthily, getting fresh air and staying in touch will all go a long way to helping us through this crisis.’