In a challenging time of heightened anxiety, fears, and isolation - it's important we all take time to keep ourselves mentally healthy.

Oliver Brecht, Managing Director of Veretis, joins us on the podcast to share his tips about maintaining your own mental health as well as how to spot if others are having issues. Subscribe to Veretis' Pysch Up! Podcast too: veretis.com.au/podcasts/

Oliver's Top Tips:

Physical distancing doesn't mean we need to be social disconnected. Make use of technology to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues.

Don't turn 'ifs' into 'whens' - don't turn a potential future and thoughts into facts. Don't speculate too much about the future - focus on today and what is inside your control. 

We can inadvertently spread the virus, don't spread anxiety with rumors and speculation. Choose one news source (i.e. the evening broadcast) to stay informed - but cut out the rolling news, channel surfing, and website refreshing.

Have a routine and stick to it. Retain some structure in your day. If you can't go to the gym now, how can you find another way to get a work out in at home. Get dressed for work. How can you maintain other practices that you enjoy?

Be realistic about what is achievable during this period. The world has changed and maybe some of the goals you had set are impossible now - review and set challenging but realistic goals for what you can achieve now.

Distract yourself positively with other things going on in your life. Remind yourself about the positive things that are still going on. Call friends and family and talk about something other than Covid-19.

Most organisations have an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) which provide counseling and support services for employees who might be under added pressure, stress, and anxiety. They are confidential services you can access. If you're organisation does not have an EAP, there is always Lifeline which you can call on 13 11 14.  

If you notice a change in behaviour in others - particularly withdrawal and loss of interest in work/other areas, or people who are ruminating constantly on Covid and the current situation and can't move onto other subjects - they might be struggling with their mental health. Reach out and support them or put them in touch with your organisation's EAP provider. 


We have compiled a list of extra resources to help you through this changing world:

10 tips to help ride through the fallout of COVID-19
Virtual Debriefing
Staying constructive during Covid-19

If you have a question you want us to answer on the podcast, email podcast@human-synergistics.com.au