Staff from North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust have been sharing their top tips on how to stay mentally well.
The staff have spoken out to support Mental Health Awareness Week which runs from today until May 24.
This year’s theme is kindness which is one of our trust values.
Dr Katarina Berankova, Clinical Director in Paediatrics said: “My “top tip” would be simple: “Keep up with the routine”.
“For me it means meeting my weekly jogging targets and going for a run at least four to five times a week enjoying the nice weather. I also try to use this time to learn something new - I’ve started attending online yoga lessons every morning.
“I’ve been practicing and improving my “old” hobbies too, namely baking – trying both old and new recipes and enjoying happy faces of my two sons when tasting final products.”
Yogen Jagatsinh, Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine, He said: “I take one day at a time and do not think much about the future. I listen to the news only once but not constantly.
“I am positive at work and even when talking to patient or relatives I give them negative results with a hope and best commitment, so that they are not despair and looking for the best outcome.
“I treat all staff with respect and am friendly.
“I start work on time and try to go home on time and I give 100 per cent.
“I don’t moan about things I don’t have and I am always grateful with what I have.
“I believe in the theory of Karma. We reap what we sow. Things will automatically come good if your work is with the right attitude and intent.”
And Amanda Kennett, the trust’s new Associate Director of Midwifery, said: “My tip would be focus on being happy and looking for the good (in a situation and in people), laughter goes a long way to helping us all cope with life’s pressures.”
Consultant Anaetheatist Mohamed Mohamed, who works at The Cumberland Infirmary, said: "My top tip is to create a clear distinction between your professional life and your personal life.
"Find something to do that is not virus related and that brings you joy. I personally invested my time to learn the guitar through online courses which took a lot of stress away and reading more about dogs as I am looking to buy a dog."