Wellbeing 

COVID fatigue and what can be done

Here we are at the commencement of Term 2, 2022 and although many people had some kind of a break over the school holidays and/or Easter long weekend, they continue to find themselves feeling tired and drained. 

There is such a condition known as COVID fatigue and it appears to have impacted a large majority of the population, especially in metro Melbourne. This issue occurs as a result of experiencing consistently high cortisol levels, from which fatigue follows. We have all been in crisis mode for over two years now. Although we might believe that the lock downs have ceased, school communities have experienced a great deal of disruption throughout Term 1.

I am seeing many students with high levels of anxiety. Many also have underdeveloped socialisation skills. They have missed two years of practice and are unsure how to behave or respond appropriately. All of which increases anxiety levels and unsurprisingly some are therefore reluctant to attend school. 

So, how do we learn to live with all of these things? 

It’s important to minimise the stress as much as possible. Grounding techniques are vital. For example, forest or beach walks; sand or clay play; lots of tactile play. Encourage children to learn how to be kids again.

What else can be done? Anglicare’s Parentzone Eastern has put out a comprehensive booklet with heaps of information about available supports and a huge array of seminar and course program topics to assist parents across a broad range of issues, ages, abilities and cultures for this coming term. This is a resource that may be of interest to you and your family.

https://www.anglicarevic.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/ParentNewsEast_-Term-2_2022-003pdf

Take care of yourself and your loved ones,

Anne Lawry

Chaplain