Taking Care of Yourself
With the unfolding COVID-19 crisis, making decisions to prioritise self-care has never been more important for the rural and remote health workforce. So many folk rely on us for all aspects of well-being. As a workforce, it is important to actively deal with the worry and stress associated with the growing concerns about our own, our loved ones as well as our patients and clients’ health.
The important thing here is to make choices. In terms of maintaining psychological and emotional balance it is important not to let feelings of overwhelm stop you from being proactive. Wherever possible, stick to your normal routine. Alternatively, create some new routines and try to maintain these schedules as much as possible.
Of course, a regular Mindfulness practice is helpful. Apart from centring and grounding you, Mindfulness helps to allow you to witness and acknowledge how you are feeling. It slows down ruminating and assists with problem-solving. Taking time to sit, think and reflect in anyway that resonates for you such as meditating or writing in a journal, is not wasting time, it is maximising your chances of coping.
In this time of social media it is important to find a balance in terms of the amount of time you spend accessing information about the impact of the virus. Of course, it is important to stay informed but equally important for our mental health is that you choose credible sources of information. Limiting the amount of time you access this type of information will help to contain your fears.
Isolation of course, is not a new challenge for many rural and remote health professionals. But it will be new for some and come with some additional restrictions for others. Don’t allow yourself to get bored as this will lead to negative thinking. Stay busy, read, write letters. It is so important to stay connected with friends and family, both for you and for them.
Finally remember that CRANAplus Bush Support Services is available 24/7 on 1800 805 391. We are happy to talk you through survival strategies or just to chat.
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Social & Emotional Wellbeing
A collection of resources to help with self-care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Fitness & Exercise
Advice and tutorials to help you maintain your fitness whilst practicing social distancing.
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Nutrition & Health
Healthy eating tips and tricks to help maintain your diet during this pandemic.