Making our way through COVID Normal
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted most aspects of our lives on an unprecedented scale. For many of us, 10 months ago we were trying to work out if this new virus warranted the fuss it was creating. And regardless of our position on COVID-19, we can all agree it has impacted everyone in some way. The pandemic has created new pressures for some and exacerbated existing distress for others. These impacts have included the fear of the unknown, a lack of control over one’s life, concerns over housing security, loneliness, job insecurity, disruption of family ties and social connectedness. This has the potential to undermine the mental health of individuals, and more broadly, our community.
As we move towards ‘COVID normal’ what will ‘normal’ life look like?
As the Australian Government begins to cautiously lift restrictions it is important to think about what life might look like beyond lockdown. And to consider what we want life to look like.
Adjusting to the new normal
Now that we are starting to get back out into the world in a more meaningful way, we will notice a lot of changes. Greeting friends might look more like a smile rather than a hug. Going for coffee or lunch may mean an inability to get seating at your favourite restaurant due to limitations. Arriving on time for appointments is the new early while we reduce people in waiting rooms. And masks may be a semi-permanent feature in today’s society.
For some people these changes won’t have a significant influence on their wellbeing. However, for others, the effects of COVID-19 may have a deeper impact on their mental and social health. This might include experiencing anxiety when around groups of people after spending so many months interacting with a select few. It may also involve intrusive thoughts questioning the safety of leaving homes and whether the world is a safe place, after being told for so long it is dangerous and to proceed with caution. It can include compulsive behaviours regarding hygiene and monitoring the practices of others. Or it may well be the fatigue of interacting with people again after so long in isolation.
Returning to the workplace
While many of us have been working from home in the last few months, the lines between professional and personal life have been blurred. Some employees have been working longer hours while others have been working much less. We’ve enjoyed some perks of working from home, such as no commuting and additional time to run those errands. But we also lost a lot. This includes the morning coffee runs with team members, the ability to ask a co-worker a ‘quick question’, or just having another person to speak with throughout the day. And whether we have enjoyed these experiences, we need to be kind to ourselves during the transitional period back to work. It will be important to take time to readjust to the workplace to reduce the likelihood of burnout and increase job satisfaction.
Financial challenges
COVID-19 is taking a heavy toll on people who have lost income or their job. This includes sourcing work, meeting financial commitments, applying for Centrelink benefits or negotiating with landlords and banks to manage rent, mortgages and credit card repayments. Given the circumstances, anxiety about finances is expected. However, many people’s careers and ability to make money is part of their identity. Employment can provide a sense of mastery and purpose. In the absence of this, many people will experience a sense of loss and feel unsure about themselves. This can have a significant impact on mental health, resulting in anxiety, depression or substance misuse.
Strategies to transition into life after lockdown
Pace yourself - Taking your time to adapt to new routines post-lockdown is important. Returning to work, the gym, after school parenting duties and social events all at once might be overwhelming. Acknowledge that you (and your family) need to go at the right pace, without feeling the pressure of doing it all at once!
Reflect on what you want - Think about what you’re comfortable with and make plans accordingly. How do you want to communicate? How you want to greet people? Where are you comfortable going (indoors venues or outdoors locations)? Do you want to stay within a small social bubble?
Talk to work - Many workplaces are allowing more flexible working arrangements post-lockdown. If you are finding it difficult to transition to the workplace it may be feasible to change your working arrangements.
Control what can be controlled - There are things you can’t control that can cause fear and anxiety but there are some things you can manage or plan for. You can start taking back control by making small changes, such as deciding what time you set your alarm, washing your hands regularly or developing weekly meal plans. There are also bigger things to consider like who you spend time with, how much media you consume or your support of local businesses. Having an action plan for managing things you might find more difficult can be helpful. And asking for help from a loved one, friend or a professional can assist in regaining some of that confidence and control.
Look for opportunities - The Federal Government is offering heavily subsidised courses for people who have been financially displaced by COVID-19. If you’re looking to enhance your current skillset or retrain in a different field, a new qualification could help you move forward.
Seek help early - Everyone reacts differently to change. Feelings of anxiety, sleep difficulties, changes to your appetite or irritability are signs you may need some extra support. Speak to your GP for advice.