“It sounds silly, but every time I have to leave the house, I feel overwhelmed and stressed.”
When there’s a lot going on it’s normal to feel a little stressed. This is because our bodies release hormones when we’re faced with challenging situations, which are designed to help us react, respond and overcome. If the stress continues for too long though, it can lead to feeling overwhelmed, but there are things you can do to help reduce your stress and avoid becoming overwhelmed.
•Try to focus on the positives of reopening, and chat with friends and family about how we all can help each other and our communities to get through this. What can you do to help someone today?
•Talk to someone about how you are feeling and discuss how leaving the house can be managed.
•Start writing! Whether it be a journal, poems, or just your feelings, it can help to get them on paper.
•If writing isn’t your strong point, record your thoughts verbally through voice notes on your phone or computer.
•Play some music or a favourite podcast. Choose something that makes you feel happy or relaxed.
•Is there a game or puzzle you enjoy? Solitaire, Sudoku and crosswords are great fun. Or try something more social with a friend or family member – euchre, Scrabble, or Monopoly?
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. These can all help to give you more control and reduce the risk of you catching and spreading COVID.
Make a list of tasks that you want to complete, and a realistic plan of what you can achieve each day. Balance these tasks with things you enjoy, such as going for a walk, watching a movie, or connecting with friends and family.
Remember, it’s normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed at times, so don’t be hard on yourself for feeling this way.
It’s easy for the anxiety and stress to become all-consuming. Actively put time aside each day to not think about what is upsetting you. This doesn’t mean you must avoid it entirely; instead, you’re just balancing out your day so there’s not constant stress.
Whenever you feel anxious, try taking three slow, deep breaths. This reminds your body that everything is ok, and can help you calm down.
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
12 Day of Mental Wellness (Lifeline)
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.
