Coping during the Coronavirus outbreak

[Sophie_M]

We recognise that many of us here in the community are feeling scared, worried and overwhelmed about Coronavirus (COVID19). 

As a result, we created this thread to allow people to come together here during those difficult times and encouraged those wanting to share or seek support to do so here in this space. 
 
It was important with this thread that we maintained perspective and supported each other as best as we could, medical, scientific and public health experts around the world have and still are working hard to contain the virus and treat those affected. 
 
The Beyond Blue Support Service is available via phone 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or via beyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat. 
 
There are some other helpful discussions taking place here within our forum community that you may find helpful to read or participate in: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/online-forums/staying-well/hi-there-i-only-just-joined-and... 

This thread is now closed for further posting. Users are still able to read through and find support through already existing posts.  

[Guest_1643]

Hey Ellu - not sure how old your son is , but that's a really amazing trick!!

I do that with 5 things each, and it helps!

[Guest_1643]

hey Con:nie, that can sound frustrating and a bit invalidating. It's pretty normal to be worried, confused, overwhelmed. I don't think it comes down to "having a good attitude."
The uncertainty is very hard for me. I feel insecure. I do find, similar to you, when I speak to a particular family member, that she can't relate to my anxiety at all about it, and talks to me like i'm a baby. Then I remind myself - who's panic buying, if no ones anxious? Anxiety is palpable and so common now, and not silly. I hope you can get some clarity with your partner, it helps during this time to have as much clarity as possible. Sending support and encouragement

[Guest_6546]

Hello Everyone 🙂

While the current situation is scary – it doesn’t have to be.

There are three simple strategies you can adopt right now to eliminate, or at least significantly reduce the anxiety and fear of the unknown:

1. "This too shall pass". This is a strategy for HOPE. Keep reminding yourself that this difficult situation - no matter how painful it is for you at this moment - is only TEMPORARY. There is a brighter future on the other side; see it in your mind, feel it in your heart, and KNOW that it is going to arrive.

2. "You can't control everything - control what you can". This is a strategy for RESOLVE; your resolve to get through to the other side, no matter what. It brings your energy into focus: “what can I do right now to support myself in this crisis”? Focus on what is within your control, now: Your thoughts, your emotions, the time you go to bed….people you contact to talk to…..how you talk to your partner and your kids….what you eat and don’t eat…. whether you exercise or not….the music you listen to….the book you read…. how deeply you breathe… the plans you make…the changes you consider…See? You’ve got so much control over your life right now! This is the backbone of your RESOLVE that you WILL get through this to the other side.

3. "You are NOT alone - if needed, seek help”. This is an important strategy supporting your RESOLVE. Whether it’s a health issue; financial, emotional, or family pressure there is plenty of help available. The slogan “We are in this together” we are now hearing all over the place is not just a slogan – it is a back-bone truth. Reach out!

In addition:

- Breathe! Remind yourself to breathe deeply and slowly whenever you start feeling anxious. Imagine you are breathing through your heart in and out for few minutes. This bizarre technique will calm you down, I promise!

- Ensure you are getting enough sleep. If you find it difficult to fall asleep at night, try to catch a nap during the day.

- Meditate. Give yourself 15-30 minutes of uninterrupted time every day. Meditate in silence, to some relaxing music, or to a guided meditation. Simply relax, close your eyes and place your awareness on …nothing…the space around you. You are safe. All is well.

Will see you on the other side! 🙂

[quirkywords]

welcome its me,Thanks for your helpful post.

Bellajade thanks for making your first post and welcome.

Can you keep in touch online with friends and text and message people?

quantum 88 welcome to the forum and thanks for your informative post.

here has been a lot written about what we can control and how we can help ourselves and others.

ou have made a good summary of many of the points that have been discussed so far on this thread,

[quirkywords]

Xtinex

Welcome to this thread. I am glad yout are trying things to make sure you are calm. It is hard when you are surrounded by so much information.

Do songs help yoou calm.

[Guest_1643]

hi Mark I find that one of the odd things about this, it's very different depending on where you are. Some of my friends are in an area with many cases and almost everyone is self-isolating. Other areas people are out on the street as normal. Til recently in my area I did see quite a few people in the shops. I guess now we have crossed over and are all following the same guidelines, which is good.

[Guest_1643]

Instead of Watching the News I am : -
Watching Arrested Development

Lighting a candle and reading

Emailing friends

Listening to music

[Guest_6546]

Thank you.

Yes, we do "know" a lot, but often don't pay attention or simply forget.

There is nothing new under the sun until the light shines from a different angle. "oh, I haven't seen this before..."

[quirkywords]

I read we should be saying physical distancing rather social distancing and physical isolation because we can stay in contact when home in many ways. Just a call to say I am thinking of you, how was your day, do you need anything.

[quarantined]

Hi all, I arrived back from overseas a few days ago. I am in self isolation but I am living with family in a small apartment. I am doing my best to keep my distance from them but it is very difficult. My family still have to work. I am waking up every day thinking I have coronavirus symptoms but usually end up deciding I am imagining it. I am feeling incredibly stressed. I am not worried for myself but so worried about unintentionally infecting my family. If I could do this week over I would go stay in a hotel by myself. I feel like I've made a huge mistake. Is there anyone else in this situation? How are you handling it?