Let’s be honest, this is a very stressful time – your supermarket’s shelves are empty, you might not be able to see family or friends and Tom Hanks has announced he is one of the many to contract COVID-19 – it’s totally normal to feel some anxiety amid the COVID-19 pandemic, so here are some ways to take care of your mental health.
In a bid to help combat all the negativity flying around right now, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has released guidelines to minimise the harmful effects the COVID-19 pandemic is having on people’s mental health and well-being.
WHO has suggested we take steps to minimise the amount of news we watch, saying, “Seek information only from trusted sources and mainly to take practical steps to prepare your plans and protect yourself and loved ones. Seek information updates at specific times during the day, once or twice.
“The sudden and near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel worried. Get the facts; not the rumours and misinformation.”
The World Health Organisation’s website is a great place to visit for trusted updates on the pandemic.
They also added, “Find opportunities to amplify positive and hopeful stories and positive images of local people who have experienced COVID-19. For example, stories of people who have recovered or who have supported a loved one and are willing to share their experience.”
WHO also suggests we also take the time to assist others as this can help our own mental health, “Assisting others in their time of need can benefit the person receiving support as well as the helper.
“For example, check-in by phone on neighbours or people in your community who may need some extra assistance. Working together as one community can help to create solidarity in addressing Covid-19 together.”
When it comes to those in isolation – which is likely to be many of us as workplaces urge people to work from home – they suggest we try to keep our personal daily routines or create a new one and to stay in contact with friends and family via telephone, social media, email, and video chat.
Make sure that when you do chat with friends you talk about other topics so you don’t just heighten each other’s worries about COVID-19.
They also added that it’s important to “pay attention to your own needs”, writing, “During times of stress, pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing.
“Exercise regularly, keep regular sleep routines and eat healthy food. Keep things in perspective. Public health agencies and experts in all countries are working on the outbreak to ensure the availability of the best care to those affected.
Where possible, you should also try and avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can increase your anxiety – not ideal!
You can also try to use meditation or mindfulness exercises to encourage you to notice what’s happening with your mental health. There are a number of apps you can download to help you with this.
And if you do notice that your anxiety is beginning to interfere with your work, school or personal relationships, reaching out to a mental health professional is a great idea. There are also a number of online psychologists if you don’t want to visit someone’s office.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.