By Adrienne Garside
There’s no point sugar-coating it – Australia is on track to collectively endure one of the toughest years in living memory. First, the summer bushfire season had our beautiful Central Coast looking like a post-apocalyptic hellscape for weeks on end. Then, after almost no respite, we’ve had our lives completely up-ended by COVID-19. In recent weeks, some selfish folk have hoarded essentials like toilet paper for fun and profit. Major disruptions to schools, workplaces and social gatherings are likely to persist for months. Everyone is being strongly encouraged to stay at home – particularly older people whose health may be at greater risk.
Aside from those who have lived through war or widespread poverty, few of us have experienced this level of social upheaval. In this lucky country, we’ve never really been asked to make sacrifices for the common good before. Yet history shows us that the best way to navigate a profound crisis like the current pandemic is to stay connected, and to look after ourselves and each other.
We’re all in this together
Some in the mental health sector have begun to suggest that constant talk of ‘social distancing’ should be replaced with the more specific term ‘physical distancing’. In the current situation, robust social networks are more important than ever. It’s hugely beneficial to stay in touch via phone or mail with relatives, friends and neighbours – especially those experiencing sudden unemployment, serious illness or bereavement. If your regular shared activity is suspended, get a phone tree started to ‘check in’ with group members. Use social media platforms like Facebook to reach out to others (but ignore the unsourced news and medical advice offered there).
Self-care isn’t selfish
It can be especially hard to prioritise self-care during a crisis. Yet taking good care of yourself nurtures resilience, which is the ability to bounce back effectively from setbacks. Here are some basic self-care tips to get you started:
Maintain regular routines – Try to keep to your usual schedules around getting up, dressing, eating, sleeping and exercise. As the 20th century pop psychologist Dale Carnegie used to say, live in ‘day-tight compartments’ – keep focused on the task at hand, not worrying about what might happen tomorrow, next week or next year.
Seek support – Many health services are now being delivered remotely or using other non-traditional methods. Contact your GP to find out the safest ways to care for your health. Don’t delay seeking help if something doesn’t feel right, physically or mentally. If possible, enlist a friend or family member to maintain your access to food, medication and other essentials.
Relieve stress – Let go of the need to be productive. The priority for the foreseeable future is feeling safe and connected. You can break out that long-postponed DIY project if you want to, but ‘vegging out’ on the couch is equally valid. Do a jigsaw puzzle. Buy a book online from an exciting new author. Revisit a favourite film on Netflix (maybe not Outbreak or Contagion right now). Take some slow, deep breaths. Whatever makes you feel calm is helpful.
Hang in there
It is normal to feel anxious at such an uncertain time. It may help to write your worries down, or share them with someone you trust. Try to keep your mind focused on what you have to be thankful for. Seek news from fact-checked sources like the ABC and the Sydney Morning Herald. Share smiles, kindness and toilet paper. And remember – this, too, shall pass.
For crisis counselling 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
call Lifeline on 13 11 14
Adrienne Garside works for Iris Foundation, a charity that aims to reduce the risk of suicide on the Central Coast. The Foundation achieves this by facilitating and supporting awareness campaigns, programs and partnerships which enhance community connectedness and well-being. For more information, please visit: www.irisfoundation.org.au.