During these times of uncertainty it’s important to take the time to check in with your mental health and wellbeing.
As we near Easter it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and saddened by the physical separation from family and friends and the changes to your usual routine. During this time of distancing, prioritising both your physical and mental health is very important.
Clinical Psychologist, Debra Sandford sat down with Lung Foundation Australia to provide some key advice for how you can look after your mental health during a time of uncertainty.
Humans are social creatures, Debra says, feelings of isolation, loneliness and sadness are common when we are apart from one another. It is important that we don’t let social distancing turn into emotional distancing, as staying connected is essential for your wellbeing.
Listen to this short video to hear Debra’s quick tips for caring for your mental health.
COVID-19 and your wellbeing: Expert advice
Debra also joined us for the first webinar in our Understanding COVID-19 series. This webinar discussed the importance of emotional wellbeing during COVID-19.
Watch the recording to find out more practical ideas for looking after your mental health and managing challenges whilst navigating through this time of change and physical distance (run time 1hr 5 mins).
“A big “well done” for the webinar session with Debra Sandford. It was a great source of information and comfort in these COVID-19 days. I found myself feeling encouraged, supported and more in control.” – Jo, living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Watch the full free webinar, here.
Downloadable resource
Lung Foundation Australia, in collaboration with Debra Sandford, developed a mental health guide for people living with lung disease and lung cancer during COVID-19.
The guide provides further advice, tips and techniques to help you manage your mental health and wellbeing, including mindfulness techniques to reduce stress. To view and download the resource, click here.
Register for our next Understanding COVID-19 webinar
Join us live again with Debra as she leads an Understanding COVID-19 webinar focused on the emotional wellbeing of carers. Debra will discuss the carer’s journey and how carers and loved ones can support each other and balance their personal needs during this time.
Register now for the webinar. To read more about other upcoming webinars, click here.
*Please note, if you registered for our last Understanding COVID-19 webinar you will automatically receive access to the whole series.
Maintaining movement
Exercise plays an important role in both your physical and mental health. While you might not be able to maintain your regular routine, it’s important to keep your body moving and maintain your exercise habits.
In case you missed it, last week we launched the first video in our at-home exercise series to help you maintain movement. Our first episode demonstrates some exercises you can do while watching TV in an armchair.
To view the video, click here. Stay tuned for more exercise videos over the coming weeks.
Helpful links
If you are feeling overwhelmed or if you need to talk to someone, there are a variety of support services you can access that provide 24-hour support, information and advice.
For more helpful links, please see our website here.
Lifeline: 13 11 14
BeyondBlue: 1300 224 636
We’re here for you
Remember our Information and Support Centre staff are available to connect you with resources and support services to help you during this time.
Also keep an eye on our website and Facebook page for the latest updates.
Our Information and Support Centre is open Monday to Friday 8:00am-4:30pm (QLD).