Mental Health & Wellbeing

Don’t use the “Isolation” tag to forego looking after your mental health and wellbeing.

There are many news innovative to maintain a healthy mind and body.  Here’s a few:

Keep moving!!

Now that we are all over the hype of excusing our desire to eat all day and lay on the couch, we must remember that the plan for this isolation business is approximately 6 months!!  Now, I don’t know about you, but I cannot continue to consume the amount of highly processed and preservative-filled snacks and “adult-only beverages” as I have been.   We must be kinder to our bodies and show them a little love.  The simplist of things can make a world of difference to your wellbeing at this stressful time.

• Go outside for a walk
• Take time to peel yourself off the couch and walk around your house/apartment/quarantine room
• Eat as healthy as you can. Remove the skittles from the colours in your diet and aim to throw a fruit or vegetable in
• Use some of your time to peruse the endless amount of free online fitness regimes or classes. There are plenty out there!!
• Set a timer or alarm to get you to move if you have to

Staying connected through the COVID-19 crisis

We are all able to connect easier than ever before.  Take advantage of platforms such as Zoom, HouseParty, FaceTime & other video chat sites to maintain social connection.  Hell, yell over the fence to your neighbours to check in on their wellbeing

Helping children cope through COVID-19

This is an uncertain time for everyone, and children may be impacted by fear and anxiety. Here are some tips on how to ensure your children are supported;

• Give your children extra attention and reassurance. Where possible, minimise their exposure to media and social media that may heighten anxiety
• Remember, this is unchartered territory for all.  Find time to escape the chaos and have fun
• Acknowledge your own feelings about the situation and let children know it’s okay to share their own feelings
• Include your children in plans and activities around the house
• If you don’t see an improvement in 4 weeks, or if you’re concerned, seek professional help (earlier if needed)

Reputable sources of information

• Australian Department of Health – http://www.health.gov.au
• World Health Organisation – http://www.who.int
• Smart Traveller (information for Australian travellers) – https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/news-and-updates/coronavirus-covid-19

Where to go for support?

It is extremely important to seek out help if you feel you need it. We want to remind everyone that Lifeline is here to offer support to you and listen. Lifeline are committed to ensuring our services continue as normal during this time.

• 13 11 14 will continue to be operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Lifeline Text 0477 13 11 14 will continue to operate 6pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week
• Lifeline webchat will continue to operate 7pm – midnight (AEDT), 7 nights a week
• Kids Helpline – for children that may need support 1800 55 1800 https://kidshelpline.com.au
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 https://beyondblue.org.au