Kimberley Hackett
School of Primary , Community and Social Care
Self Care for Anxiety and Depression : Personal and World Crisis
Aim : To explore use of self-care activities during regular bouts of anxiety and depression , personal crisis ( bereavement , financial issues , etc .) and world crisis ( COVID-19 )
Method : Online survey . Questions centred around self-care behaviours , diagnosis and symptoms of anxiety and depression ( using the Generalised Anxiety Disorder questionnaire and the Patient Health Questionnaire )
Results : No self-care activities were undertaken more during episodes of personal crisis ; however , some activities were undertaken more during world crisis . Avoidant self-care activities were rated as most helpful , alongside some alternative therapy activities . Other therapies were rated as least helpful . Those in part-time employment were found to have been more negatively impacted by COVID-19 than those in any other work status .
Conclusion : This study shows the importance of self-care activities . It could also have implications for NHS referral services other therapies were rated as least helpful , suggesting that other self-care activities may be more accessible and useful in reducing anxiety and depression . The study also shows the negative impact of COVID19 on self-care activities and mental health . Results of this study also provide insight into coping mechanisms used when faced with unprecedented times like COVID-19 , where the effect on mental health will be undoubtable .
Postgraduate Conference 2020 Page 24