Ongoing impacts of COVID-19
There has been a lot of change in the world recently as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has forced us to change the way we live our lives. This rapid change might have made you feel more anxious, stressed and uncertain about what the future holds. eCliPSE has some resources to help you as we continue to find our way through this challenging time.
Wellbeing tips from eCliPSE
Strategies for coping with self-isolation and quarantine:
- Stay informed, but find a healthy balance with how much media you consume. Exposure to too much negative information can make you and your loved ones experience feelings of fear and anxiety.
- Actively seek out positive news or stories each day to remind yourself that there are good things happening in the world around you, and in your own life.
- Start a 'gratitude jar' where you write down one thing each day that you are looking forward to doing once things return to normal.
- Prioritise healthy eating and sleeping routines.
- Develop an exercise routine that you can do either indoors or outdoors and schedule time in your day for regular exercise. Click below for some ideas.
- Music can help improve our mood and make us feel good. Create your own Spotify playlist and invite your friends to check it out and do the same. Click below for inspiration.
- Spend 5 minutes decluttering a space - tidy up a corner of your house you've been neglecting. Click below for some tips.
- Watch or read something that encourages mindfulness or take some time to zone out and breathe. Below are some exercises you can do right here on eCliPSE.
eCliPSE mindful listening exercise
eCliPSE mindful movement exercise
If you are unable to listen to the audio version, please click here to access and read a text version.
Click here for eCliPSE self-soothing exercises
Click here for TED Talks on mindfulness
Free resources to download and share
Stay connected and look out for one another
Remember:
- If you have access to them, use available technologies and check in on people that you might not have seen recently. Seeing someone’s facial expressions can help increase connection.
- Maintain contact with your community whilst following distancing guidelines. Can you talk to neighbours over the fence?
- Make a list of people who may be more vulnerable or isolated and assist where possible (e.g., those without internet access, or who can’t shop online).
- Use this time to strengthen the bonds with your close friends and family who are in this lockdown situation with you.
During this uncertain time, it's important to remember that sticking together will strengthen the connections we have with each other. Showing kindness and compassion will help those around you, as well as contributing to your own sense of purpose and wellbeing.
It’s important to remember that COVID-19 doesn’t discriminate - everyone is at risk and needs to follow guidelines from the government and medical experts. Continue to maintain good hygiene and practice physical distancing.
Seek support
You might find that even though you and your loved ones are practicing self-care, the added pressure of the COVID-19 situation can be overwhelming. With distancing guidelines in full effect and people being encouraged to self-isolate, telephone and online health services are a great solution. If possible, contact your GP or mental health professional for extra help (but ensure you are following all advice from Healthdirect, especially if you’re showing symptoms or are in self-isolation). Ask your doctor if they are using Skype, Zoom or other telehealth programs to stay in touch and provide services remotely.
Lifeline - 13 11 14
- You can access this service by phone or through online counselling. There will phone counsellors available to take your call from 7pm to midnight.
eHeadspace
- Click above for free online support and counselling.
Beyond Blue Support Service: 1300 22 4636
- Short term counselling and referrals by phone and web chat.
Emergency Services: Triple Zero (000)
Latest official health updates
With so much change going on across the world it’s important to stay up to date with what’s going on. The resources below are trusted places where you can find health information on COVID-19.
Australia Government Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health Alert
Health Direct: Coronavirus (COVID-19)