William and Kate tell Brits they must look after their mental health during lockdown

17 April 2020, 10:33

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have told the nation "we're in this together" as they work to support the country's mental well-being during the coronavirus pandemic.

William and Kate sympathised with those in lockdown, with the duke saying: "It's not always easy. We can feel frustrated, miss loved ones or get anxious."

The Cambridges, who have made mental health campaigning a major part of their public work, have narrated a video which will highlight new advice on Public Health England's (PHE) Every Mind Matters website.

The clip will be released on national TV on Monday.

The pair have been self-isolating at home with their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, and have been home schooling them inside Kensington Palace.

PHE has launched new guidance after the Office for National Statistics Opinions and Lifestyle Survey, which aims to understand the impact of the outbreak on British society, found 84% of those questioned worried about the effect the pandemic is having on their lives.

Just over half said it was affecting their well-being.

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The range of new resources include a tailored Covid-19 mind plan, and support for specific mental wellbeing issues like anxiety, stress, low mood and trouble sleeping.

The website signposts people to activities such as mindful breathing exercises, help "reframing" unhelpful thoughts, and muscle relaxation.

As images of deserted streets are shown, then carers being clapped by the nation, William says in the video: "All over the country people are staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

"It's not always easy. We can feel frustrated, miss loved ones or get anxious."

Kate takes over to say: "So now, more than ever, Every Mind Matters. There are things we can all do to look after our mental wellbeing at this time."

The duke adds: "Every Mind Matters can help get you started with your NHS online plan. Showing you simple steps to help deal with stress, boost your mood and feel on top of things."

The duchess says: "Search Every Mind Matters to get your action plan today," and the couple say the final words together "We're in this together".

Alongside the new mental health support, Every Mind Matters encourages people to complete a personal Mind Plan, a quick and free interactive tool offering tailored mental wellbeing advice.

The NHS-endorsed content has been developed in partnership with clinicians, academics and leading mental health charities and social enterprises including Mind, Mental Health Foundation, Samaritans, Rethink and Mental Health First Aid England.

Baking star Nadiya Hussain said communicating with her friends and family helps her cope: "For me, reaching out to people, talking to my loved ones, helps manage it."

While England footballer Jesse Lingard said: "I'm doing yoga twice a week at home to look after my mental health. Speaking to my family on a regular basis is also really helpful as they give me support and make me feel connected."

Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who completed self-isolation after contracting Covid-19, said: "It's vital that we all look after our mental health in these challenging times, so today we are launching new guidance on the NHS Every Mind Matters website which is tailored to help people deal with this outbreak through practical tips and advice.

"Whether it's through exercise, keeping to a routine, or trying something new - there is so much we can do to keep our minds healthy and prevent issues becoming more serious - and I'd encourage everyone to take advantage of this brilliant resource."

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