Mental health tips from Hong Kong athletes to counter coronavirus stress
- From rugby and CrossFit to trail running, a selection of the city’s athletes share how they weather mental storms
- Getting outdoors is key, especially for a hike to the beach and a change of scenery
The 27-year-old was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2016 and said Hong Kong’s coronavirus restrictions means she has to pay special attention to her mental health.
“Right now is one of those times where I’ve had to err on the side of caution,” said Robinson, who works as a coach at North Point’s Coastal Fitness. “The third wave of Covid-19 has just hit Hong Kong, and although I’m not particularly stressed about the potential outcome with work or finances, it means change to my routine. Ultimately, change to what I’ve created stirs the pot a little and leaves an opportunity for me to slip into an episode.”
Robinson, who is South Africa’s CrossFit country champion, also came 70th in the world in the female division of the 2020 CrossFit Open. She said she gets asked regularly how she approaches work, life and everything in between, and said staying mentally fit is all about routine.
“It means being meticulous with things that are within my control,” she said. “Resorting back to my ‘mental health toolbox’ to avoid my triggers.”