Maintaining your wellbeing at this time of uncertainty is very important. Worry and feelings of unease are natural and expected during stressful events like the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. However, there are things we can do to manage our stress and minimise the impact on our mental health.

Tips for maintaining wellbeing

• Stay aware and engaged – Check in on friends and family. Look out for changes to what they’re saying about how they feel or think about the situation.
• Socially connect – Keeping our distance physically doesn’t mean you should socially isolate. Think about creative ways to check in on family and friends – for example messenger chats and virtual catch ups.
• Maintain a routine – Whether you’re at home or working in a socially distanced workplace, try to maintain or establish a routine.
• Relaxation time –Disconnect from media and take time to unwind from the stress of the current environment.
• Remember your goals – Use this time to action some activities from your ‘if only I had more time’ list.
• Look after yourself – Keep physically active, eat well and healthy, maintain sleep routines and general health.
• Timeframe awareness – Know that our reactions to the COVID-19 restrictions will go through peaks and troughs.
• Seek professional support if needed.

Prioritising our wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around us can help us live happier, healthier lives. Visit 5 ways to wellbeing – Wellbeing SA.

Mental health during social isolation

Access a network of diverse specialist services based in South Australia at mental health support – SA Health.

SA COVID-19 mental health support line

Contact the SA COVID-19 mental health support line on 1800 632 753 or through online chat between 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Monday to Friday.

Beyond Blue support service

The Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service can be accessed by calling 1800 512 348 or through online chat and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Looking after your mental health during COVID-19 videos

Phoenix Australia has a range of videos related to the COVID-19 crisis. The videos include how to have courage and joy whilst looking after the mental health of the workforce in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Support for domestic and family violence

Domestic and family relationships come under additional stress during times of uncertainty and financial hardship.

1800 RESPECT is a national phone service offering 24/7 support to anyone impacted by or supporting people impacted by sexual assault, or domestic and family violence.

Mental illness – additional support

If you or your family are experiencing mental health symptoms, ask your General Practitioner (GP) for an assessment and a mental health care plan. This will entitle you to engage with a mental health clinician (psychologist or accredited social worker) for focused psychological services delivered via telehealth (videoconference or phone).

For more information and wellbeing tips, visit the Australian Government Department of Health Head to Health website.