Sign up for news & eventsAdvice to Stay Healthy During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Posted 1 April 2020
Mental health during isolation
The most important thing to remember in this pandemic is that medical, scientific and public health experts around the world are working hard to contain the virus, treat those affected and develop a vaccine as soon as possible. We have never been better equipped to face a pandemic. Remind yourself that this is a temporary period of isolation to slow the spread of the virus, and that your efforts are assisting others within the community to avoid the virus.
Try to view this as an opportunity to focus more on hobbies or activities you otherwise wouldn’t have had time for. Some activity ideas include starting a journal or blog, playing an instrument, replicating something you’ve found on Pinterest, learning another language or taking the time to clean out any belongings that you no longer need.
It is also important to stay aware of the situation, and to do so through trustworthy sources like the Australian Government Department of Health, Health Direct, Smart Traveller and World Health Organisation, but limit intake of negative media. It is recommended, however, to use social media and other means to stay connected with family, friends and colleagues.
Keeping regular sleep routines and establishing a daily routine or schedule that you can stick to at home can also be very comforting in the face of change. Wake up and change out of the clothes you’ve slept in, ensure you’re eating regular and healthy meals and be sure to do a home workout, yoga or go for a walk to get some exercise and sunlight every now and then.
Advice for families
It is advised that, for children, you create a daily schedule that involves maths, reading and writing if they would normally be attending school, as well as creative time or time outside. Children, in particular, really thrive on predictability so a routine is very useful. Create weekly or daily activities, read out the plan to them and stick it on the wall at home.
Whilst this can be a lovely opportunity to build and strengthen family relationships, it is important to allow time for family members to have some time to themselves. Allow children to call their friends, read, or go on with other private activities. Give yourself a break, too. Especially in strange and confusing situations, parents will be the rock that their children rely on, so it is important to keep yourself well.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder that affects over 2.2 million Australians. This disorder involves the wear and tear of joints and cartilage that protects joints, which may result in pain and inflammation. Its development may also be a result of genetics, bodyweight, the type of work we do or our recreational activities.
Osteoarthritis develops gradually, but early diagnosis and the right balance of exercise, healthy eating and pain management regimens can help limit its effect on everyday life. Some pain relief medications include Panadol Osteo, or Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 hourly.
A natural anti-inflammatory recommended to improve pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis is turmeric. Meriva Turmeric in particular, which combines turmeric with a fat to increase absorption, has been proven to significantly improve pain and mobility in sufferers of osteoarthritis. GO Healthy have their 600mg Turmeric VegeCapsules which is great for joint & bone health!
Flu shots
An average of 2,800 Australians die from the influenza and pneumonia every year. Some people are at greater risk of influenza complications, so even if you yourself are not concerned, if you catch the flu you risk spreading it to a vulnerable person. Getting the flu shot will help to avoid spreading it to at-risk people, and avoid you feeling awful yourself.
With the current strain on the healthcare system, it is more important now than ever to consider getting a flu shot and ensure that there is less pressure from illness that is not COVID-19. It is also free for all people aged 65 years and older, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and older and everyone aged from six months and over with medical conditions that put them at risk of complications from influenza infection.
Sources:
https://www2.health.vic.gov.au/Api/downloadmedia/%7B92AD0873-1DBA-4365-8EFB-7C4D183544F4%7D