Metro South Health is encouraging Logan locals to focus on being less worried and more present during the pandemic.
Program Director of the Metro South Health Vaccination Program Renea Collins says the step into the COVID-19 response was an easy one, as someone who is always willing to take a leap and land on her feet “most times”.
However, working on the frontline of the COVID-19 response in a perpetual state of disaster response, was not always easy, and Renea says she had to find ways to cope with the understandable pressures and stress.
“Maybe what COVID-19 has given us all is what it took away for awhile – the preciousness of physical closeness with those you care about,” she says.
Renea believes the COVID-19 pandemic has brought somewhat of a focus on what is important in life: “being less worried about what or where you’re going to be in 5 or 10 years and being present in the moment.”
“I am a pretty easily-pleased type of individual, so being able to spend time with my partner and planning our re-scheduled wedding, having a 7-year-old who makes you laugh and cry with her compassion for others, hanging out with my beautiful lifelong friends, listening to music and taking an uninterrupted bath are all ways to cope with the pressures.”
According to Metro Health South, most people will feel some distress during a crisis like this, this is natural. It is likely people will experience a range of emotions, thoughts and behaviours over time.
Everyone can take some action to protect and maintain emotional and physical wellbeing. We can take early steps for our mental health and wellbeing or to get help from others. This will reduce the chances of ongoing mental or physical health issues.
For more information and strategies by Metro South Health, click here.
