Stress down during Lockdown

As we negotiate our way through another lockdown, one thing that has become apparent is that the impact of restrictions can differ significantly for individuals. This may depend on your employment conditions, type of business, family dynamic, stage of life and even cultural background.

There are also numerous factors that that may impact our stress levels, including;

· financial hardship,

· Job status

· social isolation

· Concerns about health implications, symptoms

perceptions of the future after the COVID-19 pandemic

· uncertainty about organised events, participation and associated tasks,

· concerns about vaccinations (availability, different types, perceived or real side effects).

Whilst each person’s experience of the Covid pandemic may differ, one thing is for sure; Covid presents us with uncertainty and challenges that we are unlikely to have faced before.

Saturday is LifeLine “Stress Down Day.” Whilst stress levels may vary for individuals, you may find some of these tips on ways to reduce stress from Beyond Blue worth-while.

1. Postpone major life change

Making major changes in your life can be stressful at any time, but this is especially relevant at the moment. If you’re already feeling stressed or anxious, it’s best to avoid or delay significant events if possible. If you’ve had to cancel or postpone important events due to the coronavirus pandemic, try to keep things in perspective and remember that this time will pass and normal life will resume.

2. Resolve personal conflicts

Stress in personal relationships can be a major contributor to anxiety and depression, and any issues may be under the magnifying glass while we’re all being asked to stay at home. Learning how to communicate honestly with people and address problems or conflicts as they arise is important. A counsellor or psychologist can help you find ways to work through your problems.  Relationships Australia is another great resource and they are continuing to deliver services through telephone, online and videoconferencing – not face-to-face – during the coronavirus pandemic. The  relationships section  of the Beyond Blue  forums also contains a lot of valuable advice and personal stories from other people who are dealing with relationship issues.

3. Do the things you enjoy

Take your mind off your worries by making sure you allow plenty of time for enjoyable activities. This could include listening to music, reading, gardening, spending time connecting with family and friends online, making your friends care packages and writing letters. Try doing something creative or learning a new craft. Starting a project, like making a gift for a friend, can provide a goal to work towards and give you a great sense of achievement when complete.

4. Control your workload

Work plays a big role in our lives, but it’s important to have a sustainable work-life balance, particularly if you’re working from home while trying to home school children due to the coronavirus. If work is increasing your stress levels, avoid long hours and additional responsibilities, and learn to say ‘no’ more often.

5. Exercise regularly

Physical exercise can help relieve tension and relax your mind. Try to do some physical exercise every day, even if it’s just going for a (social distancing-appropriate) walk around the block or doing some star jumps in your backyard. There are plenty of great online workouts available which are great for both your physical and mental health.

6. Get support

Simply talking to someone such as a friend, doctor or counsellor can help relieve stress. Don’t be afraid to ask for support.

7. Remember to relax

Incorporating breathing and muscle relaxation exercises into your daily routine may be helpful. They can also be used as short-term coping strategies. Some people find meditation or yoga a good way to unwind. This article by Smiling Mind explains how mindfulness can help during the coronavirus

For more information, head to https://coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au/

A reminder of some supports you can access during this time if needed are:

Immediate Support:

Mental Health Triage 1300 363 788 VIC residents

Mental Health Triage 1800 011 511 NSW residents (Accessline)

Lifeline 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au

Local Support

Through an appointment with your GP (doctor), you are able to obtain a care plan which provides you with a minimum of 6 heavily subsidised appointments with a private practitioner.

Support Lines and Websites:

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens

Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au

Headspace 1800 650 890 https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/connect-with-a-clinician/

Online Chats:

Beyond Blue 3pm-12am https://online.beyondblue.org.au

Headspace https://headspace.org.au/log-in/?redirect=%2Fmy-account%2F

SchoolTV

We continue to provide access to School TV and the wonderful resources and information that are imperative in supporting parents, families and students as we work together to navigate challenges, and celebrate successes, joys and milestones.

Please check out our SchoolTV by using the link below.

https://sje.vic.schooltv.me/

SchoolTV Special Report: Riding the Corona coaster

https://sje.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-riding-corona-coaster

We would love your feedback!

Rach Chapman

College Leader - Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

(and The Wellbeing Team wellbeing@sje.vic.edu.au)

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