Looking after your mental health is important too

These are challenging times. The coronavirus pandemic has affected every aspect of our lives – both at home and at work. Over the last month, much attention has been given to how we can maintain our physical health – and quite rightly so.

We must also pay attention to our mental wellbeing. Stress, financial worries, uncertainty about what the future holds, and social isolation – these are all things that could be affecting your life right now and any of these could have a significant impact on your mental health.

Here are some ways that you can help look after your mental health during this difficult period.

Connect with other people

• Video chat with friends and loved ones. Try a FaceTime or Zoom call; set up a weekly call (or more often) so you and they have something to look forward to.
• Take part in your next NFSP regional meeting. We are holding these on a weekly basis as far as possible. These meetings will connect you with other subpostmasters in your area. You can hear the latest developments, ask questions, and contribute to discussions.
• Join your local NFSP WhatsApp group. These are a good place to get the latest info and advice on the current coronavirus situation (and to keep in touch with the NFSP and other members in your area). Speak to your Branch or Regional Secretary about joining – or call our team at HQ on 01273 452324 (option 5), or email us at communications@nfsp.org.uk

Beware negative social media

Social media is a great way of staying in touch with friends, family and colleagues – but you should look out for ‘fake news’ and don’t let negativity and scaremongering drag you down.

Keep active, get outside if you can

Exercise is beneficial to your mental wellbeing. Make sure you are getting regular exercise as often as you can: go for a walk, take part in an online exercise class – whatever works for you. Getting outdoors is vital too – sunshine is proven to have health benefits, including improving mood (but remember to adhere to social distancing guidelines!).

Take advantage of the support available to you

The NFSP is here to support you through this difficult period. We can help with any concerns you might have about your business. As well as general guidance on running your post office and retail, NFSP members can access free professional advice on:

• Staffing and your responsibilities as an employer - including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (option 1 if you call us).
• Commercial or property finance issues - in particular any commitments you have on your rent, mortgage, bank loan repayments or any other finance agreements for vehicles or shop-fittings (option 2 if you call us).

Don’t dwell on any work-related worries you might have – give us a call on 01273 452324.

Know your warning signs

It is easy to get caught up in stress and worry; sometimes we don’t realise that we are thinking and acting differently. Take a step back and reflect on how you are feeling at the moment. Speak to your loved ones about how they are feeling too.

Know that it’s ok not to be ok

Everybody needs help sometimes. If you’re having a tough time, there are people who can help. The NFSP offers members (and their staff) a free professional counselling service. Call 0344 477 1619 to speak to someone.

Other organisation that can offer help include:

• Mind – 0300 1233303. An information and signposting service open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays)
• Samaritans – 116 123. Call any time.
• CALM – 0800 585858. A service specifically for men open from 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year.

Please look after yourself, and your family and friends. We will get through this difficult time.