“I was so excited to see my mainland family for Christmas but now I’m hesitant to see anyone in person. I’m starting to feel isolated.”
It’s normal to feel worried or a bit anxious during periods of change or uncertainty. This is our body’s way of trying to keep us safe. But if we feel worried or anxious for too long, it can become a problem. Try not to get caught up focussing on what might happen in the future. Instead take things one day at a time, and try to focus on the things you can control.
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.
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?
•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.
Consider meeting friends or family in an open outdoor space, like one of Tassie’s beautiful parks or beaches, or even your own back yard.
Think about what you might say to a friend or family member if they were feeling the same way – you’d probably let them know how great they were and try and help them understand that shouldn’t be worried. Give yourself the same kindness. Remember, it’s normal to feel a little stressed and worried during times of change and uncertainty.
•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.
A friend, family member, religious or community leader. Or you can call 1800 984 434, or book in below, to speak with a trained counsellor. Talking with someone about your concerns can help stop negative thoughts going around and around in your head, and make you feel better.
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.
•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?
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 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.
