COVID 19 Isolation Resource for Individuals and Families

This resource is aimed to be a practical guide in anticipating some issues that will emerge as we move forward as a community. As important as the physical health aspect is now, mental health will increasingly become more important as we move through the various stages of the virus spread.

The uncertainty with the COVID 19 pandemic has caught most by surprise. It now appears we are only a matter of a few days to a few weeks behind the rest of many other developed countries who are experiencing widespread shutdowns, significant strain on health systems and increased anxiety.

So what mental health issues do individuals and families need to consider now?

Grief and loss

o   Protecting vulnerable members of our family is very important. These include those over 70 years of age, those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island descent, women who are pregnant or those with underlying chronic health conditions or are immunity compromised. Instead of meeting face to face we can prevent a higher risk of mortality by keeping connected with family and friends that are vulnerable by text, phone or video call.

Dependence and addictions

o   Challenges present to both adults and children with managing our time. As unemployment rises so will idle time. There is great potential for an increase in dependence issues with areas such as alcohol and other drugs, pornography and video gaming. Every family needs to consider:

  • How to stay accountable to others and direct effort and time into useful projects and activities.

  • Think ahead about what materials and resources you may need to complete those neglected projects at home.

  • Develop a daily routine that includes timeframes or limitations around online/screen use and alcohol use.

Work anxiety

o   Many will find themselves working from home and that can bring many challenges. You may need to consider:

  • How do you balance having a zoom conversation while the kids are in the background?

  • When do you switch off from work and on to parenting and relaxing with the family?

  • Planning to eliminate boredom and don’t accept it as an eventuality

Financial Anxiety

o  There is and will be more financial stress for many families. While the government has introduced some packages to reduce the burden many are still feeling anxiety about the future. Perspective on everything is very important. The curve will flatten and COVID 19 will eventually disappear. It is important to assess what the object of your hope is in times of difficulty. Placing our confidence in material possessions or money will always be an insecure source of hope. Consider:

  • What does give you hope and confidence in the
    future?

  • How can you keep perspective by balancing your
    thinking through appreciating what is good and valuable in your life? 

Loneliness

o   Loneliness distorts our perceptions and can mislead us. We know chronic loneliness is just as damaging as cigarette smoking! Overcoming loneliness requires investing in points of connection and maintaining consistency in routines where possible. Consider how:

  • Instead of meeting a friend face to face you may be able to regularly connect by phone or video technology. Plan ahead and set this as a routine.

  • Link in with your religious group, community group or sporting club regularly by phone or video technology. It will be easy to become complacent in being involved with many activities as they go online. Determine to commit and intentionally contribute. Take the initiative to explore new ways you can connect while we
    adjust to life with social distancing.

  • Get to know your neighbour and find how you can support each other

Relational conflict

o   Parenting challenges, financial stress and job loss are all factors linked to relational
conflict, as well as a sudden increase in time spent with a spouse or children. It is important families begin to have conversations with each other now to understand each other’s worries and frustrations. Families thinking ahead can then set some ground rules to help for coming months ahead. They need to prepare to:

  • Protect each other by filtering exposure from social media and the news. For example, set a limit for no access to news or social media 1 hour before bedtime.

  • Focus on encouraging healthy conversations about topics other than the virus

  • Listen to each other’s worries and concerns and respecting each other’s views

  • Enhance relationship by enjoying family projects, activities or games

Conversation starter questions for you and your family to consider

  •  How are we going to adjust while we have more time at home?   

  • What are we going to struggle with while we are more isolated?

  • While we spend less time with many people, how will we stay connected?

  • What are we thankful for right now?

If you need to speak to someone, call us today and book in an appointment on 02 4905 0236. If you are in urgent need of assistance please call Lifeline on 13 11 14

Dr Andrew Wilkinson

Director/Clinical Psychologist
























General, ParentingAndrew Wilkinsoncovid19, anxiety, isolation, families