This tips sheet provides information on the common reactions of yourself and others during a COVID-19 pandemic, what you can do to take care of yourself and manage your COVID-19 stress, anxiety or anxiety, and helpful resources and support. .

COVID-19: common reactions

As the COVID-19 pandemic and its far-reaching consequences continue to spread around the world and in our community, it is normal for people to experience a wide range of thoughts, feelings and reactions, including:

Feeling stressed or overworked

fear, anxiety or concern

Racing ideas

Sadness, crying, loss of interest in normal fun activities

Physical symptoms such as Corona Again Spreading increased heart rate, abdominal pain, fatigue or other discomfort

Failure, resentment or resentment

Problems or difficulties

Feeling helpless

Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Feeling disconnected from others

Concerns about visiting public places

Problems with relaxation

All these experiences are understandable in the face of this important challenge. There are loss of life, rapid changes in our way of life (eg study, work, social gatherings) and disrupted plans due to travel restrictions and social (physical) steps away from our efforts to slow down the spread of transmission. People naturally worry about themselves and the health and safety of their loved ones. There are still many ambiguities. It is important to be aware of the seriousness of the public health challenge for our community and to remember that the reaction of a place of panic and fear often does not help, especially in the long term. Taking care of our well-being in times like these can help reduce stress and are essential to our calm and effective action in the midst of this global crisis.

Strategies for dealing with stress, anxiety or discomfort

When many things feel insecure as out of our control, one of the most effective ways we can manage stress and anxiety is to focus on the actions we have under our control. Here are some ways you can take conscious steps to take care of your physical and emotional health during this challenging period:

Learn how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. The Australian Department of Health recommends important steps we can all take to protect ourselves from infection and prevent the spread of the virus, including good hygiene, loneliness and social (physical) distance. Know how you feel. What you are feeling now knows that it is good that you are feeling it. Take the time to notice and express how you feel. This can be achieved by writing a diary, communicating with others or directing your emotions to something creative (eg drawing, painting, poetry, music). Meditation exercises can help us stay strong in the midst of an emotional storm. You will learn how to be a witness and thoughts and feelings can come and go in your own time without being overwhelmed.