Mental Health

Impacts of COVID-19 on your mental health

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started in 2020, our lives have been affected in different ways by the virus and public health measures. Self-isolation and quarantine, uncertainty about what the future holds, job losses, and being away from family and friends have had a big impact on our lives and particularly on our mental health.

Psychological distress due to COVID-19 may lead to you feeling upset, worried, scared, or anxious but there are a few steps that you can follow to manage this.

Some tips that can help you manage your stresses and improve your mental wellbeing include:

  • Have a healthy lifestyle: following a daily routine and exercising is a good way to change your mood and reduce your stress and anxiety. Practice hobbies that you enjoy and do things that give you a sense of achievement.
  • Eat healthy meals: with a balanced diet, you can improve your general physical and mental health and feel better overall.
  • Talk to your family and friends: talking to family and friends, especially if they live far away, can sometimes make you feel better. Remember they are a phone call or message away.
  • Try to be positive: be kind to yourself. If you find you are having a lot of negative thoughts, acknowledge them then ask yourself how you would feel if you didn’t believe them. What can you do to have more supportive thoughts? The way we talk to ourselves is important.
  • Don’t forget that support is available. If you feel that your feelings are becoming overwhelming and you aren’t coping with the situation, you can always seek help and support to overcome this obstacle.

Misleading information can also affect how we feel about COVID-19. It is important to stay up to date and informed by trusted sources such as the Department of Health (both national and in your state or territory) or your doctor, and follow the rules in place to protect ourselves, our families, and our communities.