“We kept COVID out for so long, and I’m angry that we reopened and let COVID in immediately. It feels pointless.”
As humans, we feel safe when we have certainty and stability in our lives. So it’s normal to feel a little upset and unsettled when things are changing.
Choose reliable sources for news to minimise getting upset about things we can’t change. This also reduces information that may not be factually correct or current anymore. Understand the rate at which the situation is changing and evolving is beyond our control, and that we are progressing through the pandemic as best we can, with an end eventually in sight.
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 and reduce the impact 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.
•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.
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.
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.
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?
•Try something outdoors, such as gardening, walking the dog, or backyard cricket.
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.
