Mental health support

It's natural to feel worried in unpredictable times. It's important to keep things in perspective - public health agencies and experts in all countries are working on the outbreak to ensure the best possible care for those affected.
If you're frequently having intrusive and negative thoughts, take a moment to assess how realistic these truly are. Reframing negative or unhelpful thoughts into more realistic statements can help you maintain a healthy dose of optimism.

You might find the following resources helpful:

• Mental health charity Mind's Guidance on coronavirus and your well being.
• NHS 'Top tips to help if you're worried about coronavirus'.
• Young Minds' support for young people worried about coronavirus

Getting help if you're struggling

While it's normal to feel afraid and lonely at a time like this, worsening mental health could indicate the need for outside help. If you find yourself with very poor mental health while isolated and aren't able to pull yourself out of feelings of anxiety, depression, or fear, it's important to reach out for help:

• call Samaritans on 116 123 - Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
• call the Sussex Mental Healthline on 0300 5000 101 - Available Monday to Friday 5pm to 9am and 24 hours at weekends.

For a more detailed list of local support available, go to Hastings Voluntary Action's website.