“My local small businesses and cafes are being impacted by ongoing staffing problems. I worry for them.”
When things seem a bit uncertain, it’s normal to feel a little worried or even scared. It’s your body’s natural response to a real or perceived threat.
Try to remember that Tasmania has come a long way, and we’re in a much better position than we were when the pandemic started. At the beginning of the pandemic the only way to keep Tasmanians safe was to keep COVID out. We have more knowledge and understanding of the different strains of COVID now, and the things we can do to reduce our risk of catching it. Tasmania also has a very high vaccination rate, which further helps to prevent the spread of COVID.
•Remember to follow the health guidelines around masks and distance.
•Order food to takeaway.
•Buy a gift certificate.
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.
•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.
When you start to feel anxious, frustrated or scared, look at what may be increasing this. Does it happen when you’re watching or reading the news? When you’re looking at social media? Talking to a particular person? Identify these triggers and consciously try to minimise them.
Chat with a friend, family member, religious or community leader, or GP about your concerns. 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
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 feeling anxious, upset or 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.
