Always new horror news, always the same four walls - and nobody to talk to? Those who are mentally ill have to take special care in the corona crisis.
Berlin (dpa / tmn) - The corona crisis can become a personal crisis for many people - including psychological ones. Because exit restrictions and their consequences can put massive strain on people with mental illnesses.
Iris Hauth is a board member of the German Society for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Neurology (DGPPN). She advises those affected in this situation:
- Correct information: It is not entirely without news, especially today. Hauth warns that the flood of sometimes scary news and ever new numbers can increase the tension. Her tip: do not keep track of messages, but only once a day, for example.
- Preserve everyday life: getting up in the morning, showering, getting dressed - this may not be necessary in the home office, but it still makes sense. It makes sense to consciously experience everyday rituals positively: eating together with the family or having the opportunity to tidy up the closet in peace. So you go to bed in the evening with the good feeling that you have been meaningfully busy.
- Space for positives: beautiful music or favorite films can now be of great help. Sport helps to relieve tension, ideally and, depending on the weather, maybe even by the open window or on the balcony. And a walk in the fresh air clears your head.
- Stay in touch: Visiting friends is not possible right now, but you can still keep in touch - via video chat or traditionally by phone. This is how you convey each other: You are not alone.
- Do not repress: the crisis is serious and affects everyone. That cannot be suppressed, and neither should one. At the same time, however, you can try to strengthen positive feelings. And if everything gets too much, you shouldn't be afraid to get professional help - for example, with the telephone counseling service or the regional emergency services.
Telephone counseling