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Looking after your mental health


We are sharing with you below an article prepared by Lifeline Australia. Options for seeking help are provided at the end of the article.

The outbreak of the coronavirus COVID-19 has impacted people in varying ways on an international scale. It is understandable that during times like this, people may be feeling afraid, worried, anxious and overwhelmed by the constantly changing alerts and media coverage regarding the spread of the virus.

While it is important to stay informed, the following are some mental health and wellbeing tips and strategies to continue looking after ourselves and each other during these difficult times.

  • Manage your exposure to media coverage as this can increase feelings of fear and anxiety. Be mindful of sources of information and ensure you are accessing good quality and accurate information. We have provided some links below.
  • Follow a “calm yet cautious” approach – do you best to remain calm and be mindful not to contribute to the widespread panic that can hinder efforts to positively manage the outbreak. Ensure you are following directives issued by the government, medical advice and observe good hygiene habits.
  • Show compassion and kindness to one another – these times of fear, isolation (both physical and social) and uncertainty are when it is most important that we strengthen our sense of community by connecting with and supporting each other. Remind ourselves that we can manage this much better together in solidarity, and that COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate – it can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, nationality or ethnicity.
  • Actively manage your wellbeing by maintaining routines where possible, connect with family and friends (even if not in person), staying physically active, eating nutritious foods and seeking additional support by contacting Lifeline or further professional support as required.  

Strategies to cope with social distancing, self-isolation or quarantine

Going into a period of social distancing, self-isolation or quarantine may feel daunting or overwhelming, and can contribute to feelings of helplessness and fear. In addition to the above, we encourage the following;

Perspective – try to see this time as unique and different, not necessarily bad, even if it something you didn’t necessarily choose

Connection – think of creative ways to stay connected with others, including social media, email and phone

Be generous to others – giving to others in times of need not only helps the recipient, it enhances your wellbeing too. Is there a way to help others around you?

Stay connected with your values. Don’t let fear or anxiety drive your interactions with others. We are all in this together!

Daily routine – create a routine that prioritises things you enjoy and even things you have been meaning to do but haven’t had enough time. Read that book, watch that show, take up that new hobby.

Try to see this as a new and unusual period that might even have some benefits.

Limit your exposure to news and media.

Perhaps choose specific times of day when you will get updates, and ensure they are from reputable and reliable sources.

To continue reading please visit https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/topics/mental-health-and-wellbeing-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak

Where to turn when you need personal help

We understand that some of you are currently going through a very difficult time personally so we have provided some options for help and support.  We urge you to contact them if you need assistance.

Options for help

Beyond Blue

1300 224 636 - www.beyondblue.org.au

Lifeline13 11 14 - www.lifeline.org.au


Headspace

1800 650 890 - www.headspace.org.au

Kids Helpline

1800 551 800

Mindspot

1800 614 434 - www.mindspot.org.au

1800 RESPECT

1800 737 732 - www.1800respect.org.au

National Debt Helpline

1800 007 007

National Coronavirus Helpline

1800 020 080

Centrelink

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/subjects/affected-coronavirus-covid-19

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CALL (08) 7079 1077

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