A GROUP of Welsh international footballers have teamed up with a Newport charity to help provide some positivity in these testing times.
The FAW and Hafal have joined forces in a campaign calling on people to take care of their own mental and physical health, and that of others, during the coronavirus pandemic.
Players involved include Angharad James, Jess Fishlock, Tash Harding, Hayley Ladd, Sophie Ingle, Helen Ward, Kayleigh Green, Dan James, Rabbi Matondo, Will Vaulks, Harry Wilson, Ethan Ampadu, Chris Gunter and Connor Roberts.
They have created a video with five tips to help out when people are self-isolating and social distancing as they are aware of the effect it can have on mental health.
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Their tips are:
Keep in touch: It is important to keep in touch with friends and family during the outbreak and can still be done while social distancing. People can call, text, video call or get in touch through social media.
Don't over-expose yourself to negative news: While you should stay up to date on news about coronavirus, if you find that it is making you anxious, then try to limit the amount of time you check up on the news and to make sure you are using a reliable news source to avoid misinformation.
Keep your mind active: Structure your days by planning activities to do when self-isolating or just staying home and social distancing. You could also use the time to try something new, whether its a new recipe, new house-based hobby or even getting some of the built up DIY jobs done. But it is important to remember not to over-stimulate the mind as this can disrupt sleeping patterns.
Look after your physical health: The important thing is to remember to have a supply of food and medication if its needed - especially if you are self-isolating. Looking after your physical health can also help to look after your mental health too. Set meal times and try to keep hydrated and eat healthy. Also keep physically active, whether that's with doing jobs around the house, exercising in the garden or if there is a park nearby - as long as you adhere to social distancing policies.
Support other people: There may be people in your community who are alone and completely isolated that you could reach out to - via call or text - this could make all the difference to those who are feeling lonely and isolated and can also help boost the feel-good sections of your own mind by doing a good deed.
The FAW and Hafal's advisory campaign will have online adverts - using space that was previously set up to advertise this week's men's matches - which were cancelled after the outbreak of the virus.
There are safe online communities that you can talk to others about your mental health and these include Hafal's Clic.
If you are struggling, then you can contact Hafal's Promise, CALL or the Samaritans.
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