The government has launched a well-being campaign to help those suffering stress and anxiety as a result of the Covid-19 lockdown.

Are you OK? encourages people to talk about what’s worrying them and look out for one another.

A website has also been established with links to well-being resources and organisations that can help.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle said: ’We will be living with Covid-19 for a long time. It’s not going to go away anytime soon and we are in it for the long haul.

’As an island we’ve pulled together but we’ve also seen a significant increase in mental health issues.’

Mr Quayle said that for some people working from home has been quite an enjoyable experience - but for the vast majority of people, it has led to rising levels of stress and anxiety.

People are worried about losing their jobs or having enough to pay their bills and anxious of the unknown threat that Covid-19 still presents.

Time spent in social isolation has also contributed to a more heightened risk of mental health issues.

Are you OK? has five key elements.

It encourages people to talk and listen and take notice of those around you.

Staying active every day can improve your mood and decrease feelings of stress, depression and anxiety, while taking up a new challenge can stop you dwelling on what we’ve just been through.

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The campaign also encourages people to give your time to help others.

Mr Quayle said: ’After what we’ve been through it’s OK to feel differently, and as we enter a new normal it is more important than ever to look after our physical and mental health.

’For many, difficult personal circumstances that might normally be manageable, have become more challenging than ever before.

’We don’t always know what others are going through - so taking the time to genuinely ask the question and listening to them share their story has never been more important. If you are struggling, instead of saying the classic, "Fine thanks", maybe try opening up a bit, you might be surprised.’

Director of public health Dr Henrietta Ewart said the campaign has two pillars - what you can do for yourself to relieve long-term stress and how you can help each other.

She said: ’Often, when things feel too much, talking about it stops it from building into something worse.

’The moment we realise the power of talking honestly and openly about how we are feeling, our island community will see its benefits.’

Dr Ewart said the government hoped to engage with other organisations in the third sector and private sector employers to promote the Are You OK? message.

A poster can be downloaded from Are you OK? webpage which can be coloured in and displayed in windows at home, shops or offices.

People are encouraged to share their photographs/picture on social media, using the #areyouokmann hashtag.