There are facts about stress, that the brain and mental health can help manage. Part of combatting a physical illness is having a good mental health.

1. Our brains and our immune system are deeply linked to each other. The immune system balances environmental factors, chemicals and the infamous COVID-19. It is intimately linked to our mood. Maintaining a balanced diet is the good fuel your body needs. Healthy diet

2. Stress is normal and can be healthy but too much sustained stress is not. High and unmanaged levels of stress have a number of negative consequences on the brain, immunity and the vascular system, leading to blood sugar imbalances, high blood pressure and impaired immunity and inflammatory responses – the very precise opposite of what we need to fight the potential impact from COVID-19 exposure.

3. Physical exercise is an essential component of improving both physical and mental health and regular exercise has been linked to changes in brain connectivity, increases in brain growth factors and decreases in stressors that damage our bodies cells and tissue. Stay physically active during self-quarantine

4. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can improve mood and sleep quality through enhancing control over the body’s response system and focus as well as managing anxiety and concerns. Free trial with Headspace

5. Investing in your mental health will pay off in the long run. Studies have shown that future mental and physical health are related to previous investments in mental and physical health. The earlier the better – but it’s never too late.

Source: World Health Organization who.org

Author: Dana Conroy (School Nurse from Windermere Preparatory School)