Virus solution is in our hands
THESE are uncertain times. There are many unknowns.
As humans, we’re hardwired to crave stability. If you’re feeling worried and unsettled that is perfectly understandable.
I felt that myself during my recent period of self-isolation in London. At an event for young people called WE Day, I spent time with Sophie Trudeau, the First Lady of Canada.
When she tested positive for COVID-19, I was concerned about becoming sick far from home. What I found reassuring was that the public health advice that was so clear. The recommendation to me was to selfisolate for 14 days from the time of contact.
Fortunately, I stayed fit and well and my London friends and colleagues, as well as visiting Aussie mates, made sure I had food and stayed connected with video conferences, calls and silly messages.
On my return to Australia I will self-isolate for another 14 days and I know family and friends will help me through.
For me, this experience has reinforced how a significant part of the solution to this pandemic rests with us. The daily decisions we make are critical and all of us has a part to play. Simple things really matter — good hand hygiene, avoiding mass gatherings, keeping a 1.5 metre distance between ourselves and others and staying home if we’re unwell or have been in contact with someone who is.
We must do everything we can to ease the burden on our healthcare workers, who are already working tirelessly to keep us safe and care for the sick, while preparing for an enormously taxing period ahead. If we follow the public health advice, we can make their job easier by slowing the spread of the virus, which will ease the pressure on our health system and ensure that everyone can access treatment and care when they need it.
At Beyond Blue, we are not infectious diseases experts. All we can do in relation to physical health is echo what is being said by those with greater knowledge. But we do know about mental health and we understand that these are stressful times.
It’s perfectly normal to feel a level of anxiety about events unfolding here and overseas and question how they will impact on you and your family and friends.
Uncertainty about what will happen next and disruption to our usual routines can make it difficult to stay grounded and can increase feelings of helplessness.
But we are not helpless. Just as there are practical steps we can take to reduce our risk of catching or spreading the virus, there are many things we can do to minimise distress and strengthen our emotional wellbeing.
Firstly, if the constant stream of news about the virus is causing you or your family heightened anxiety — switch it off. While it’s important to stay informed about public health announcements, you don’t need to be plugged in 24 hours a day. Consider seeking news updates only one or two times a day, at set times and for a limited period.
Then, move on to activities that lift your spirits; that might be spending time with a pet, watching your favourite TV show, going for a walk if you can or chatting to a friend on the phone or online. When you do seek information, refer to reliable sources such as The World Health Organization, the Australian government, your local state or territory health authority and reliable news outlets to make sure you’re getting the facts, not speculation or misinformation.
Taking care of your body can also help build mental and physical resilience. Try to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, seek support to quit smoking, get enough sleep, avoid drugs, reduce your alcohol intake and practice regular deep breathing or meditation.
It’s important that if you or a loved one are feeling anxious to not to let the worries spiral and keep things in perspective.
Remember that while it’s normal and reasonable to have concerns about this pandemic, some of the best scientific and medical minds in the world are working to keep us safe.
Every day, public health experts are uncovering more about the virus and in Australia, and in other parts of the world, the vast majority of people who contract it recover.
This is the very best of humanity. I am sure it is this spirit of community that will prevail.
Julia Gillard is the chair of Beyond Blue.