It has now been over a year and half since the COVID-19 pandemic began, completely disrupting our lives and changing the way we live.
We’ve been plunged in and out of lockdowns and as a result, had to adapt to new ways of working, remote learning and connecting with family, friends and colleagues. Unfortunately for a large majority, lockdowns have also resulted in temporary unemployment.
These major lifestyle changes in combination with the uncertainty of lockdowns has caused significant stress and strain upon people and for some, “COVID-19 has the potential to contribute to or exacerbate long-term mental illness including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and substance misuse,” (World Health Organization 2020, Mental health and COVID-19).
The pandemic and the extended lockdowns have left us feeling:
- Fearful
- Anxious
- Stressed
- Angry
- Sad
- Experiencing depressive symptoms
- Experiencing increased levels of insomnia
- Defeated
- Fatigued
The National Mental Health Commission has identified “Pandemic Fatigue is real and it is absolutely understandable many Australians are experiencing it…as many of us are running close to empty emotionally and mentally,” (Australian Government National Mental Health Commission 2021, Pandemic Fatigue).
Here are some strategies you can try at home to help you get through this difficult time:
- Stay connected with friends and family via phone, Zoom or social media
- Keep up with your morning routines – whether that be a run in the morning, yoga, meditation or journalling, even simply making your bed
- Try to maintain a healthy diet and sleep regime
- If you find it distressing, avoid social media and news
- Maintain physical activity, even if it is just a short walk or dancing in your living room, whatever works!
- Watch a funny movie
- Read a book
- Try out a new hobby, for example, drawing, painting, knitting, playing an instrument, woodwork, gardening projects, cooking meals from a different culture – get creative!
- Hang out with your pets
- Get some sunlight
- Most importantly, remind yourself that this lockdown is only temporary and it will pass.
If you are struggling or experiencing any of the feelings mentioned in this article, remember that you are not alone and help is always available.
If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to a family member or friend about what you are experiencing, you can seek help from a trained professional such as a GP, psychologist and/or psychiatrist.
