1. Know the facts
Get information or updates from reputable sources. Avoid getting information from social media or second-hand information from people who are not experts in the field. Instead, look at official government websites to understand what you can do to remain safe as we start to return to our everyday lives. Useful sources include: www.health.gov.au, www.health.gov.nz , www.who.int
2. Practise good hygiene
Follow official advice and practice good hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20-seconds, use alcohol-based hand sanitisers, cough and sneeze into your elbow, don’t touch your face, and if you do have any cold or flu symptoms stay at home and ring your GP.
3. Keep things in perspective
People who take care of their health and practice good self-care are more resistant to the virus. And, whilst it's understandable to be concerned about a potential second wave of the virus, it's still important to remember that most people who contract the virus, make a full recovery. Keeping things in perspective will help you stay calm.
4. Acknowledge the feelings
Acknowledge how you're feeling about returning to work, or restrictions being lifted. Children feel loved, cared for and safe when they know others experience the same feelings that they do. Similarly, adults can normalise how they're feeling about the situation by talking with others. Share your concerns or worries with friends, family members or a trusted colleague. Or, contact Benestar for free, confidential coaching and support.
5. Shift your thinking
It's easy to fall into a mindset of worrying about what could happen and an anxious mind often moves to the worst-case scenarios. To help shift your thinking and to make your return to work a little easier, focus on what you can control and ask yourself “What is the one positive step I can take now?"
6. Manage your reactions
Learn effective stress management skills such as mindfulness, impulse control, and progressive muscle relaxation. Head to Benehub or download the Benestar App for some free breathing and mindfulness exercises.
7. Stay safe on public transport
Travelling on public transport is unavoidable for many. If you need to use public transport, make sure to keep a safe distance between yourself and others when possible. Avoid touching hard surfaces and use contactless payment options. When pressing buttons try to use your elbow or cover your hand with a tissue. Make sure to travel with handsantiser and tissues and use them regularly. Avoid touching your face, and if you need to cough or sneeze do it away from others and into your elbow.
8. Look after yourself
It's important that you look after yourself, this can still be challenging when you have others to consider. Focus on the basics, eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep each night. Try to take time out to do things you enjoy and allow yourself some time to relax.
Further Support Available
For further support, Nestlé Professional customers in Australia are able to access FREE confidential coaching and support service from Nestlé partner Benestar. Specialist coaches will listen and offer guidance through challenging issues, or offer coaching on ways to enhance wellbeing. To contact Benestar, please call Australia 1300 360 364 and identify yourself as a Nestlé Professional Customer to access the service. It’s just one small gesture to help make a positive difference during these difficult times
