“Seeing the case numbers going up every day is making me very anxious. I feel like it’s only a matter of time before I get it.”
As humans we’re designed to want certainty and stability in our lives. So when we are faced with unfamiliar or uncertain situations, it’s normal to feel a bit anxious.
Instead of getting caught up and focussing on what might happen in the future, take things one day at a time, and try to focus on the things you can control.
Don’t forget that we are much more prepared now than we were at the start of the pandemic, when we had to close our borders to keep everyone safe. But now with more knowledge and information about COVID, plus Tasmania’s high vaccination rate, we’re better prepared to deal with any COVID cases in our community.
•Eat nutritious food, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol and other drugs
•Exercise – it helps release built up tension in your body and releases hormones that make you feel good
•Think of some activities that make you happy and immerse yourself in them.
•Choose reliable sources when you do want news, so you aren’t getting anxious about things that you can’t change. If you do need to stay up to date with the latest COVID information, use official sources like the Tasmanian Government COVID website, and follow the Tasmanian Department of Health Facebook Page.
•Set aside a limited amount of time to view social media, and avoid pages or groups that are building panic.
Remember the prevention steps like; getting vaccinated, regularly washing and sanitising your hands, checking in at venues, physical distancing and wearing a mask, and staying home if you feel unwell and getting tested, can all help to give you more control and reduce the risk of you catching and spreading COVID.
Getting outside and exercising can have a huge positive impact on your mental wellbeing, Even a short 30 minute walk can help reduce stress, improve your mood, give you more energy and even help you sleep better.
Whenever you feel anxious, try taking three slow, deep breaths. This reminds your body that everything is ok, and can help you calm down
•Talk to your doctor or health professional and family about what you need in the months to come. It might mean having phone numbers and basic medications handy and who to call for support if you start to feel unwell.
•Visit https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/ or call the Tasmanian Public Health Hotline: 1800 671 738.
•Schedule in regular times to connect with others by phone, chat or video calls.
•Set a weekly (or daily) goal for interpersonal contact/connection.
•Contact a Tasmanian Lifeline for tips and advice on how to maintain connections.
A friend, family member, religious or community leader, or GP. Or you can call 1800 984 434, or book in below, to speak with a trained counsellor.
Smiling Minds –Smiling Minds is a free app that guides you through daily mindfulness and meditation exercises
iOS Android
Insight Timer – Guided meditations, sleep music tracks and talks led by the top meditation and mindfulness experts, neuroscientists, psychologists and teachers from around the world
iOS Android
Black Dog Institute – 10 tips for managing anxiety during COVID
Beyond Blue – Anxiety Management Strategies
checkin.org.au – information and resources to help you stay on top of your own mental wellbeing, or check in with someone you care about
Official COVID-19 Updates – Get the latest official updates about COVID-19 in Tasmania, including travel requirements and alerts, public exposure sites, and testing locations, and other restrictions.
Public Health Hotline – 1800 671 738
Tasmanian-focused and Tasmanian based, A Tasmanian Lifeline offers non-judgmental, one-off or ongoing support for anyone having a tough time. If you are feeling overwhelmed, need a listening ear or friendly voice to reassure you, highly skilled Support Workers are here ready to talk to you.
