Many of us are feeling fatigued, stressed or anxious right now.
This is expected during a global pandemic, including worrying about further restrictions, getting sick, struggling at home, financial instability, family suffering, or career uncertainty.
This can all lead to feeling simply exhausted and overwhelmed.
Check in and notice how your mental and physical energy is throughout the day. Are you running on empty? Can you take a breath or take a break? Try and stick to helpful routines and habits to give you a boost of clarity and calm.
Provisional Psychologist, Caroline Stansen from Victoria University, has provided a range of tips to consider for your daily self-care plan:
- REFRAME THINKING: Practice positivity, and focus on the good things in your life.
- REST: Relaxation, mediation and sleep are important to help us recover from daily stress.
- MOVE: Ensure you move your body every single day.
- EAT: Ensure you eat plenty of fresh fruit and veg, and hydrate with water. Be aware of alcohol and coffee consumption when stress is high.
- CONNECT: Stay connected to family and friends. You might need try new ways of connecting that you haven’t before (FaceTime, Virtual games).
- FIND JOY: Ensure you make time for activities and hobbies you enjoy during the week.
- SEEK: Remember if you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed for more than two weeks, it might be important to talk to someone about it, and to access additional support.
More Information:
Australian Government Department of Health
The Department of Health has developed a collection of resources for the general public, health professionals and industry about coronavirus (COVID-19), including translated resources.
Beyond Blue has developed a Coronavirus mental health wellbeing support centre, with chat rooms and resources online. Phone 1300 224 636.
Providing support around emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Phone 13 11 14.
