The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have lent their support to a Public Health England initiative to boost the nation’s mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.

PHE has launched new guidance on how to look after your own wellbeing as well as that of children and other dependants during the shutdown.

The guidance, which can be found on its website, offers tips on staying in touch with loved ones using video calls and social media, as well as establishing a healthy sleep pattern or starting a new hobby.

Mental health minister Nadine Dorries, who was herself diagnosed with Covid-19, also announced an additional £5 million in funding to leading mental health charities to expand their services.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said: “The last few weeks have been anxious and unsettling for everyone.

“We have to take time to support each other and find ways to look after our mental health.

“It is great to see the mental health sector working together with the NHS to help people keep on top of their mental wellbeing.

“By pulling together and taking simple steps each day, we can all be better prepared for the times ahead.”

Kensington Palace said the couple have been in regular contact with organisations and patronages “to understand the issues they are facing during this difficult time”.

William spoke to Mind chief executive Paul Farmer last week, and Kate to Catherine Roche, chief executive of the children’s mental health charity Place2Be.

The guidance, which was developed with the input of mental health charities and clinically assured by the NHS, also has points on how to help children manage stress.

Published on PHE’s Every Mind Matters page, it includes tips such as being aware of your own reactions around children and creating a new routine for them.

There is also support for those who are already living with a serious mental health problem, such as how to access help from mental health professionals.

PHE said it is issuing guidance to trusts on prioritisation of services and how to maximise use of digital and virtual channels to keep delivering support to patients.

It said NHS mental health providers are also establishing 24/7 helplines.

Ms Dorries said: “When I discovered I had coronavirus I felt anxious and scared.

“For those who already suffer with anxiety or other mental health issues this may present new and difficult challenges.

“It’s imperative that we stay home if we are to beat coronavirus and save lives.

“I know how important it is that people have support to look after their mental health and this guidance will be of huge value.”

Mind is one of a consortium of charities preparing to adapt and increase their services.

They are reaching out to vulnerable groups including older adults and people with underlying health conditions, and also anyone experiencing unstable employment and housing conditions.

Paul Farmer, chief executive of Mind, said: “Reaching out to friends and family is critical, as well as paying attention to the impact our physical health can have on our mental health – from diet and exercise to getting enough natural light and a little fresh air.”

He added: “Whether we have an existing mental health problem or not, we are all going to need extra help to deal with the consequences of this unprecedented set of circumstances.”