Life After Lockdown: How to Stay Connected

As the world is beginning to open up again after the COVID-19 lockdown, many people in the community are still feeling the effects of isolation.

According to Lifeline, there are some tell-tale signs to show loneliness and isolation are negatively impacting us:

• Feeling tired, low in energy or lacking motivation
• Feeling sad or worthless
• Getting headaches, aches, and pains, upset stomach or medical conditions getting worse
• Having problems with sleep – sleeping too much or too little or having trouble falling asleep
• Suddenly losing or gaining weight
• Consuming alcohol, smoking, or taking medications more than usual
• Thinking about suicide

Look out for your family, friends, and neighbours, and remind them that life after lockdown can be an opportunity to find meaning in everyday life.

Here are some tips to help you feel connected again:

Join a club

Do you like gardening, drawing, movies, books or even walking? Do your research on some clubs in your local community and get socialising with likeminded people and make some meaningful friendships.

Set a daily routine

Making a daily routine and set some goals for the day, including activities and tasks that are meaningful to you to feel more organised and accomplished.

Get active

A nice walk, some gentle exercise, or a lap around the beach in your wheelchair are great options for getting back into the community can-do wonders for your mental health and physical health.

Get outdoors

Don’t let a sunny day go to waste! Spending time in the fresh air can be an instant mood lifter.

Learn a new hobby

While lockdown was a great opportunity to learn something new, now is a great time to keep building on your skills or learn something new from scratch!

Talk to someone

Help is always available if you have the courage to speak up. If you are really struggling, have a chat to a professional:

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Mensline: 1300 789 978

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Written By Maddy Smith – OT Student October 2021

Article inspired by www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/information-and-support/loneliness-and-isolation/