The content of this post is sourced from ReachOut.org & has been edited for length and clarity.
With restrictions and rules changing across Australia, COVID-19 is likely to be a thing for some time. You might be feeling excited or anxious - however you are feeling, your experience is completely valid. It might take some time before things feel 'back to normal', or you may need to establish a 'new normal'...either way, here are 6 steps from ReachOut.com that may help...
1. Go at your own pace
Take this quiz to check in with yourself. It can be a great starting point to pinpoint what's going well, and think about how to improve what isn't going so well:
https://au.reachout.com/articles/quiz-checking-in-with-yourself
2. Set boundaries
It's common to feel nervous about contracting/passing on COVID-19 as things start to reopen. Have a think about what you are - and aren't - comfortable with, and communicate this to your friends and family. If you don't feel up to hugging yet, or prefer socialising outdoors - that's okay.
3. Do the things that keep you well
As restrictions ease, it's more important than ever that you keep practicing self-care. This could look like:
Making time for hobbies and leisure activities
Focusing on the present moment in a non-judgemental way (mindfulness)
Continuing to get professional support if that is helpful for you
4. Be kind to yourself
We are going through an extremely challenging time and it's natural to feel all sorts of emotions - try not to judge yourself for this. Some positive self-talk might be helpful, such as...
"I'm feeling (stressed, excited, mixed feelings) at the moment, and that's okay"
"I'll get through this challenging time, one day at a time"
5. Appreciate the little things
What are you looking forward to doing when the time feels right? Seeing friends or family, going out for a coffee, playing team sport?
Remind yourself that you'll enjoy these fun things again soon, and acknowledge that it's okay to take as much time as you need to adjust.
https://au.reachout.com/articles/the-how-and-why-of-practising-gratitude
6. Talk to people
Sometimes the best way to deal with an issue is to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
https://au.reachout.com/articles/5-steps-to-talking-to-someone-you-trust
https://au.reachout.com/articles/5-tips-for-choosing-the-right-mental-health-professional
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