Even as lockdown restrictions lift and the sun decides to shine, the coronavirus pandemic continues to take its toll on our mental health.

Whether you’re concerned about a relative living under a local lockdown or worried about job security after the furlough scheme ends, it’s important to remember it’s completely normal to feel anxious, sad or stressed in light of the current circumstances, even if your mood may feel at odds with the sunny weather outside.

“It’s normal to feel anxious, sad or worried occasionally, especially during these uncertain times,” explains Lauren Gordon, a behaviour insights adviser at Bupa UK. “Over the last few months, our lives have changed enormously: the normal things, like commuting to work or meeting friends, have often stopped entirely.

“Even with our lives returning to normality, it’s understandable to experience changes to your mood.”

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