Easing of restrictions means we can see our loved ones and get back to “normal life”, but it’s OK if adjusting has been more difficult than expected. It’s imperative to be patient and compassionate with yourself and your emotions. The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for everyone, and we have all had different experiences of it. Even positive changes can be anxiety provoking, and it can take time to readjust to a “new normal”.
Anxiety will most likely pass with time as we get used to living with covid and getting back to doing the things we love. But it’s important to do what we can to take care of our mental health. There are lots of things that can help you to manage these feelings and make it easier to adjust. Here are our top tips for taking care of your mental health now that things have opened up.
- Consider slowing down
It may be tempting to say yes to everything and fill your spare time with social arrangements now that you can, but there’s no need to rush. Take it slowly, and only do what is manageable and safe for you to ease back into socialising – then as your confidence and stamina return you can fill your time back up.
- Do not avoid things completely
Avoiding things that make you anxious can seem like the easier option in the short term, but this usually makes it harder to face your fears in the long run. Instead, set yourself small but manageable goals. Start with activities that are important to you and feel doable – like meeting close friends and family for a coffee or snack outside – and gradually build up from there. Consider confiding in a friend or relative so they can support you to overcome your anxieties.
- Get your information from the right sources
Lots of conflicting and confusing information about COVID-19 can make it harder to know what to do or believe. If you are finding news and information about COVID-19 upsetting, try to limit how much you consume. Stick to trusted sources like
https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert for the most up-to-date information.
- Challenge unhelpful thoughts
It’s natural to feel worried occasionally, but anxious thoughts can often be unhelpful. If you can learn to identify and separate unhelpful thoughts from helpful ones, you may find a different way to interpret a situation.
- Focus on the present moment
When there is lots of change happening, we can get caught up in worrying about the future and ruminating about the past. Instead, shift your focus to the present moment – make plans but try not to dwell on “what ifs” or what was “supposed” to happen. Deep breathing, mindfulness or enjoying nature are all good ways to help you focus on the present.
- Make time to relax
Being able to see more of our friends and family, and visit places that might have been closed, is exciting. But it can also be overwhelming to take in all at once, so it’s important to find time to relax too. Many people find it helpful to spend time outdoors, being in nature can help to lift your mood and relieve stress.
- Tell someone how you feel
We often feel isolated or lonely when we’re struggling. However, chances are that someone we know feels the same way. Opening up to a person we trust can be very helpful, whether it’s a friend or relative, a GP or psychologist, or a helpline.
If you are not ready to start socialising but are feeling lonely, there’s plenty of support out there, like lifeline. https://www.lifeline.org.au 13 11 14
