If you are feeling overwhelmed and distressed in relation to the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID19) or are trying to reassure children, vulnerable community members or employees then the following 10 Tips may be of use as you look after your own mental health and psychosocial wellbeing and those around you:

1. It’s healthy and normal to feel panic, fear and anxiety.Human brains are hardwired to be afraid of the unknown, the random and the uncontrollable. If you find yourself confronting these feelings, know that your response is reasonable and adaptive. It’s your brains way of alerting you to threat and mobilising you to take actions to protect yourself. That’s a great thing.

2. Maintain Perspective.Exposing yourself, to a constant stream media updates, social media alerts, live media updates and focussing on negative information takes a huge psychological toll. Avoid reading social media posts that are titled “apocalypse”, “world end” or other sensational language. This will not serve you. Don’t get drawn into doomsday discussions. Facts will help to minimise fear. Rely on scientific sources for your information as this will help to maintain perspective and manage your feelings positively. Access good quality information from credible sources such as the World Health Organisation, Australian Government COVID19 Health Alerts, Smarttraveller.com.