How To Protect Your Mental Health In The Face Of Uncertainty And Another COVID Variant

Just as our lives had begun to look normal again, news of the new Omicron variant stared sweeping around the world. While little is known at this stage about the nature of the variant, we know that it has already arrived in Australia. With all this uncertainty, many are beginning to ask questions about what the future may hold.

This is a familiar predicament for the vast majority of Australians. As the world continues to move forward, many are ruminating on the difficult questions about our road to freedom. Will there be lockdowns again? Will we be able to travel during the Christmas break? Unfortunately, this is an experience that no one wanted to go through again and it is leaving some feeling hopeless.

In August of this year, Lifeline Australia received up to 3505 calls in one day, the most in its 57 year history. Australia’s Mental Health Think Tank’s latest report has outlined the effects of COVID emotionally, socially and financially, with the most affected groups being children and young people, Aboriginal communities, women, health care workers, those who are in insecure jobs or unemployed, and those with existing mental or physical illnesses.

In times like this, it’s important to prioritise self-care by making each day positive. Here are some tips to get through this uncertain period:

1. Eat healthy, nutritious food: eating well can help you feeling light and clear. The food we eat can help shape the way we feel and how we react.

2. Do something rewarding everyday: Make time to engage in at least one activity every day that is engaging and good for your health. This can focus our thoughts on positive aspects of our lives.

3. Connection: Take time to speak with friends and family. We are highly social beings and need constant connection to help buffer stress and anxiety.