Coping with Long COVID
Low mood and anxiety are common in Long COVID, whether they are due to the subsequent ongoing health issues, or disruption to ‘normal life’. In the Long COVID Rehabilitation Service we understand that you may be experiencing low mood and anxiety. You are not alone in the way that you feel, and we are here to help and support you.
Symptoms of low mood or anxiety can include:
- Feeling sad, low in confidence, angry or frustrated
- Having difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Feeling unmotivated and loss of interest in your normal activities
- Restlessness, feeling on edge or increased irritability
- Difficulty concentrating and persistent worrying
- Physical symptoms such as dizziness, tight chest, fatigue, tension and muscle aches, palpitations, stomach aches and nausea. (This is NOT to say that these symptoms are always caused by psychological changes, there are many other reasons why you may have these symptoms with Long COVID)
The Psychology element of the Long Covid Rehabilitation Service currently offers therapeutic groups to help you learn new skills to cope with the various symptoms of Long COVID and move towards living a more fulfilling life.
Attention to good quality sleep and better fatigue management (see other sections) may also contribute to improving mood and anxiety.
It is important that if you are struggling with persistent anxiety or low mood, feeling hopeless, or having suicidal thoughts that you speak to a healthcare professional and get help. Suitable people to ask could include a Care Navigator, GP, Nurse Practitioner or Mental Health Worker at your GP surgery or Mental Health clinic.