It’s normal to have a wide range of responses when coping with adverse events like what we’re currently experiencing in the third COVID wave this year. The Be Well team have some great advice for dealing with stressful situations.
What’s normal to be experiencing?
- Stronger, more intense emotions including irritability
- Difficulties with sleep, fatigue and connecting with others
What’s not? (and can be a sign that more help is needed):
- Emotions that overwhelm and impact what you want to do at work or at home
- No longer finding any enjoyment in previously loved activities
- Relying more on alcohol or other substances to manage your thoughts and feelings
So, what can you do to help yourself cope during these challenging times?
- Remind yourself that it’s ok not to be ok; people can have normal responses to abnormal events
- Focus on recharging your battery by investing in self-care activities, using small widows of opportunity throughout your day
- Move your body, eat good food and spend time with friends, family and colleagues
- Focus on what you can control, rather than what you can’t
- Try not to judge yourself for your feelings or responses; Ask “what would I say to my colleague if they were feeling the same way?”
- Ask for help if needed
- Try hanging this poster up at your desk or workplace, to remind yourself of helpful coping statements when you experience a stressful event
Bookings and enquiries
The Be Well team is made up of Monash Health psychologists supporting Monash Health employees. The program is great for regular individual employee and team check‐ins, support following a critical event, learning strategies to promote mentally healthy teams, and facilitating team wellbeing sessions.
Employees can talk to their managers if they feel their team could benefit from the support of the Be Well program.
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
- Phone: 0418 905 414
- Email: bewell@monashhealth.org
For further details and to stay informed about the latest initiatives, visit the Be Well Be Safe Program webpage.
Approved by Christine Miller