NEWS August 2021
Covid fatigue & mental health
As we find ourselves in another COVID related lockdown the strain and pressure we feel can have an impact on our mental health and wellbeing. The temporary shift to working from home for many of us also means our children in primary school and high school are also learning from home.
Looking after our mental health is priority during these uncertain times. There will be a range of emotions we are experiencing which can include feeling:
- Anxious
- Confused
- Overwhelmed
- Sad
These feelings can all take their toll so looking after ourselves, families, friends and colleagues is important.
What can I do?
There are many things you can do to look after your mental health and wellbeing.
- Look after your physical health i.e. go for a walk, take your kids or your dog for a walk, and focus on your nutrition (mindful eating).
- Get quality sleep – being attentive online can be exhausting.
- Stay connected via ZOOM, for class and online groups, or give a friend or colleague a call. Connection gives us a sense of safety and support.
- Develop new routines – We’re used to having routines to guide our days and give us a sense of achievement. When so much seems out of our control, establishing some structure in our days will help to provide stability and a ‘new normal’.
- Create new routines – This is particularly challenging for families adjusting to home learning. Try to create new routines as a family to help separate ‘work and school time’ and ‘family time’. Think about the parts of your usual routine you value the most and find ways to make these part of your day: having morning tea or lunch with colleagues via video chat.
Seeking support
It’s normal to have ups and downs, and it is important to talk about how you’re feeling with family and friends. In times like these, they are likely experiencing similar feelings.
Centacare continues to offer support through our online platform TEAMS. If you or your child need support contact us on 1300 619 379 to arrange an appointment. We offer support in Psychological assessment, counselling, mediation, Family education support and NDIS support.
More support networks
There are many other specialised services and support networks ready to help you or your loved ones. We’ve compiled a list:
Accessline
Help for all ages anytime
1800 800 944
Lifeline
Personal crisis support and suicide prevention services
13 11 14
www.lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back
Nationwide + online
1300 659 467
www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/about-us/
Beyond Blue
Personal crisis support and suicide prevention services
1300 22 46 36
www.beyondblue.org.au
Headspace
Assists 12 – 25 year olds
1800 650 890
www.headspace.org.au
Kids Helpline
For kids, teens, young adults and parents
1800 55 1800
www.kidshelpline.com.au
1800Respect
National sexual assault, domestic family violence counselling service
1800 737 732
www.1800respect.org.au
DV Helpline
Information, support and help for domestic violence
1800 65 64 63
www.domesticviolence.nsw.gov.au
Men’s referral service
Information for men using violence who want to change and support for their families
1300 766 491
www.ntvmrs.org.au
Mensline Australia
family and relationship issues
1300 78 99 78
www.mensline.org.au
