Stay Informed:
– Ensure to access RELIABLE and ACCURATE information
– Some reliable sources include: www.health.gov.au, www. healthdirect.gov.au, or the Coronavirus information line 1800 020 080

Staying Healthy and Calm:
– Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep regime
– Talk to loved ones about worries and concerns
– Engage in hobbies and enjoyable activities
– Avoid or reduce the use of alcohol or tobacco
– Limit media exposure – excess media exposure to coverage of stressful events can result in negative mental health outcomes

Helping Children and Adolescents:
– Provide age appropriate and accurate information – correct misinformation or misunderstandings
– Encourage children to share their concerns
– Children model their parents’ behaviour. The way you behave can have a significant influence on children
– Model health-promoting behaviours – washing hands with soap and water, wearing face masks
– Educate the entire family about good health habits
– Include children in family discussions and plans in an age-appropriate way
– Address misconceptions that may result in stigmatising people or groups of people in the community

If quarantining or self-isolating:
– Maintain a normal daily routine – make time for some exercise
– Stay connected with family and friends using social media and over the phone
– Use your time purposefully, e.g., working from home or getting work sent to you
– Take advantage of the time to do things that you have wanted to do like reading a book or learning a new skill

When to seek help:
– It is normal and understandable to experience emotional distress during these times
– If experiencing SEVERE emotional distress or mental health issues, you can speak with your GP or mental health practitioner

Written by Marisa Donnoli – Psychologist at De Silva Kids Clinic