Counsellor's Corner

Let's face it. No matter how much we thought we wouldn't get affected by this ongoing situation, the truth is that its EVERYWHERE. Every other news article, social media post, person you talk to, corner you turn to on the street... everything has Coronavirus written all over it.

It's spreading very fast, and we don't have the medical knowledge to keep it under control. People are skeptical about the political guidance and the capability of countries to control the spread. We all understand the financial and economic long-lasting effects of this pandemic. News and social media are filled with conflicting information, which only adds to the confusion.

The uncertainty, panic, confusion, and the unknown, is causing a lot of anxiety all around the world. Some of us might not be consciously aware of the emotional effects, but overtime, we can see that it's affecting our sleep, and increasing irritability and negative thoughts.

What can we do to help ourselves?

1. Limit your exposure to news and social media

2. Keep yourself busy:

• Exercise

• Go for a walk outside

• Listening to Music

• Get Creative (making art, writing, DIY)

• Play games (board games,

3. Meditate: There are several guided meditations and apps out there with free resources to help you relax your worries.

4. Listen to a Podcast: https://www.calmer-you.com/feeling-anxious-or-worried-listen-to-these-8-podcasts/

5. Share your worries with your friends and family. Connection is key at this stressful time, as long as it doesn't pose any risks to your well-being. Foster those connections through safe, social interactions and open conversations about how you're feeling. Reducing loneliness will help keep your worries in control.

Taking care of your physical health and maintaining a proper hygiene is key during this time.

Some tips to make sure you keep the virus at bay:

• Try to get proper sleep and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Practice safe eating habits. Stay on home-cooked meals. Thoroughly cook your meats and eggs. Avoid sharing glasses or cutlery with others during a group dinner.

• Wash your hands frequently; sanitize often.

• Avoid close contact with people coughing and sneezing.

• Use tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose it immediately and wash hands. If no tissue is available, aim into your elbow.

• Keep your house clean.

• Avoid touching your face as it's the easiest way to pick up the virus. Should I wear a mask? Conflicted views on that one. There is a link in `resources` from the World Health Organisation on this.

• Feverish, coughing, or feel ill? Seek medical attention as soon as possible

Physical Health

When and How to use Masks

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks

Affected Mental Health

Understanding the Mental Health & Social Impact of the Coronavirus: Finding the Middle Path

https://www.restorativecommunityconcepts.com/blog/understanding-the-mental-health-social-impact-of-the-coronavirus-finding-the-middle-path

The Chaos of Coronavirus: How to Protect Your Mental Health

https://thriveglobal.com/stories/coronavirus-how-to-protect-mental-health/?utm_source=Newsletter_General&utm_medium=Thrive

The Emotional Crisis of COVID-19: A Call to Action

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/emotional-crisis-covid-19-call-action-dr-tracy-pinshow-navon/