With COVID19 being a VERY prevalent issue in our news recently without any signs of slowing, it’s understandable why we are feeling overwhelmed and panicking as a result. With many news outlets claiming that COVID19 is taking over, the ABC is unpacking this mayhem and saying the opposite, “Our fear of coronavirus is far more contagious than the disease itself.”
So, here are 10 tips to help you remain calm during this ‘pandemic panic’ we are faced with!
Maintain a realistic perspective: This is a recommendation that came from Beyond Blue. Yes, coronavirus is a real threat but panic fuels the anxiety of yourself and others. Remember that washing your hands and limiting your exposure to others is the best protection.
News detox: Tune out from social media news or news all together if your feeling overwhelmed. It can be difficult to decipher between rumours and fact, by listening to the advice given by the Health Department you will ensure you are receiving the most reliable information. News delivered through social media can sometimes be misleading so be critical on what you read and take in.
Reduce feelings of helplessness: During this unpredictable time, it’s normal to feel like your out of control. Focus on the things you CAN control by minimising the risk in your environment, this will help you feel more on top of things. Things you can control are the following: the way you treat others, what you decide to eat, your mindset and outlook on the situation at hand. 
Reach out to friends: Remember you aren’t the only one in this situation so touch base with the special people in your life who may be vulnerable or living alone. You may be able to help them in some way and will feel better about sharing your own concerns with them. 
Self-care: Acknowledging you’re worried is half the stress. Meditating will help you feel grounded, feel more present and grateful for the things in your life that are good outside of the virus. You could even try a new activity, learn a new recipe, have a pamper day, try and maintain a healthy eating habit, maintain good hygiene, read or focus on something you may have been putting off- there’s no better time than now!Write down everything you’re concerned about: By jotting down your concerns it gives you an opportunity to get everything out of your mind and onto paper. Have a look at what you’ve written down and highlighted those you can control while crossing out those you can’t control. This will give you a good perspective on what to put your energy into.
Workout at home: Create a space in your home so you can release some tension you may feel. Take a walk outside if it is possible to not come into contact with anyone, to reconnect with nature and get some sunshine. Let those endorphins out!!Declutter your home: Keeping your home clean is important at this time but if you are stuck at home in isolation or need a distraction, decluttering your space is GREAT for the mind. Pick a room/cupboard/drawer in your home and set aside time to complete it, this could be within an hour, day, week, month or longer but be realistic. You could even donate items you don’t want to goodwill- bonus!
Social media declutter: Go through who you’re following on social media and unfollow any page that doesn’t serve you a purpose. If there is a page that makes you feel anxious or unhealthy, UNFOLLOW! This will ensure your feed only consists of positivity. 
Seek help- If you’re still feeling overwhelmed with anxiety or unusual feelings, call Lifeline. Since the virus, Lifeline has observed that 25% of their calls have been about COVID19 with fears of being isolated. If you feel you would like to talk about these types of concerns or feeling overwhelmed, call 13 11 14. Hope these tips are helpful and let us know how they went!
Blog by Chelsea Wood