THE principal medical officer for Scotland is encouraging people in the Forth Valley to prioritise their mental health as lockdown measures slowly ease.

It comes following YouGov research showing around 70 per cent of people are concerned or are feeling anxious about other people not following guidelines as restrictions ease.

Dr John Mitchell, consultant psychiatrist and principal medical officer, explained that the concerns are normal and shared by everyone to differing degrees.

He said: “As restrictions lift, many of us may be struggling with our feelings and emotions, feeling anxious or frustrated for what seems like no reason.

“We may have gotten used to the restrictions, changing how we live, work and interact, and whilst we might expect everyone will be grateful for increased freedoms, many are really anxious about the next steps.

“It is important that we face our fears and do not avoid them.

“The enjoyment we might get from moving more freely outside, travelling and meeting friends and family is tempered when we are worried about the spread of infection.

“By sticking to the rules during the gradual lifting of restrictions, we can be confident that risk won’t rise.

“Less virus around us can be matched with less restriction.”

Dr Mitchell suggests people mentally prepare themselves to do things they may be worried about, rehearsing in their mind the steps they can take to reduce infection risk.

In general, recognising feelings, talking to others, regular exercise, good sleep and diet, sensible alcohol and caffeine consumption can all help.

People should also try and limit the time they allow themselves to worry, taking slow and deep breaths when feeling anxious.

Advice, tips and support is also available from a range of sources, including the government's clearyourhead.scot website, NHS24, Breathing Space, SAMH and the Samaritans.

Dr Mitchell added: “Although there are practical things we can do to help ourselves cope over the coming weeks, remember that help is available if needed.

“We’ve never had to deal with a situation like this before, so be kind to yourself and to others, and reach out if you need to talk to someone.

“Support is there.”