Echo readers share uplifting stories and tips on how to stay positive during Covid-19 lockdown

As Mental Health Awareness Week arrived earlier in May, we asked readers to share their tips on how they are staying positive during lockdown, or something that has helped raise their spirits.

Many of you got in touch to tell us what’s been making you smile; from uplifting stories to learning new skills.

This is what you said on the Sunderland Echo Facebook page:

Emma Storey: “Plenty of reading has been keeping me going, taking the dogs out for a walk and getting exercise, but most of all I enjoy getting a phone call from work every Wellbeing Wednesday to see how we are doing.”

Melissa White: “My hero, my dad, finished his six weeks of chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment this February. He is so positive, strong and determined towards life and keeps a smile on my face.”

Sarah Robson: “I’ve been learning myself embroidery! As a previous agoraphobic, it’s important I still get out even for a short walk so that’s helped as has learning embroidery.”

Cheryl Watson: “I have started writing a story. It has helped to keep my mind occupied. I try to do two pages in the morning and two pages on the night. It's coming along nicely.”

Lady Shields: “Walking along our beautiful coastline.”

Michael Chapplow: “Staying connected with fellas from STAGS Support and Andys Man Club.”

Susan Randall: “Tai chi helps with stress, found it has helped me massively during lockdown.”

David Paul: “Yoga.”

Michelle Maddison: “Daily walks with my favourites have kept me sane! We’ve also got our hands on a tractor tyre so have brought the gym home which is keeping us laughing & busy too!”

Jill Bell: “My friend Ashley wears a dress every day and has a coffee sitting in the garden. I think it’s such a good idea to make an effort to get dressed and sit outside in the fresh air even if it’s just for five minutes.”

Sharon Henderson: “Gardening.”

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