There is no doubt we are living in scary, unfamiliar times.
The Covid-19 driven nationwide lockdown begins at 11.59pm on Wednesday and for many this will bring feelings of panic and anxiety. The word "isolation" alone can be daunting.
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• Coronavirus: What Covid-19 alert levels 3 and 4 mean for you and your family
This virus and the lockdown affects everyone differently, from job losses to home schooling, the disruption to regular life is widespread.
It is crucial we do all we can to ensure the Covid-19 pandemic is not followed by a mental health pandemic. We're all different and for some just being at home alone, with their own thoughts, is terrifying.
We don't have to be alone though. Physically, yes, mentally, no. The positive is we live in an age in which we are blessed with multiple means of communication. During these strange times make an effort to call friends and loved ones, enjoy some light hearted conversation.
The issues we face are deadly serious but they don't have to dominate our lives. It is not a crime to have a laugh with your mates.
Look for silver linings. Rather than focus on what is wrong with the situation we are in, look for opportunity. Take some time for self-development, read books about mindset, download a podcast and go for a walk while you listen to it.
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Advertise with NZME.I know there are many who have it a lot worse than I do but I'm going to give my perspective. Last year, I got hooked on crossfit and lost 30kg. When I heard the gym would be shut down for at least a month I was filled with dread - my biggest fear is undoing all my hard work.
Luckily, the owner of our gym let us all borrow some gear so we can do home workouts. I've also started a step challenge with a friend to get me out running and walking.
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The point I am trying to make is we don't have to crawl into a hole for a month. Let's find those silver linings, take the opportunity to focus on things we might not otherwise and come out of this thing motivated and mentally toughened.
• Covid19.govt.nz: The Government's official Covid-19 advisory website
