Slowly does it

People are being urged to take life at their own pace as covid restrictions start to ease.

Research by YouGov found that almost half of Scottish adults who have met up with others have found it more overwhelming than expected.

The Scottish Government’s Clear Your Head campaign has been designed to help people look after their mental health as life gets busier, providing hints and tips to support those feeling nervous or overwhelmed.

Tips to help feel calmer include keeping active, staying connected with others, planning ahead before leaving the house, being around nature and taking deep breaths.

The campaign also signposts helplines for those who need to talk to someone about how they’re feeling, including NHS24, Breathing Space, SAMH and the Samaritans.

Principal medical officer, Dr Alastair Cook said: “As we gradually come out of lockdown and life gets busier, it’s important to continue to look after ourselves, and others.

“Each change brings another adjustment, and whilst many will welcome having more freedoms, feelings of worry are natural as we start to go out more.

“If you’re feeling anxious, try to limit the time you allow yourself to worry and take deep breaths if you start to feel overwhelmed.

“Remember that support is there if you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling.”

To find other tips to help you cope, visit clearyourhead. scot