Coping with uncertainty
Uncertainty challenges all of us. It rubs up against our basic human desire for safety and security. It is common to worry about what the future holds and what might happen next. Living with COVID-19 in our world, combined with working in the rapidly evolving and changing COVID Vaccination and Immunisation space, makes the uncertainty factor bigger. So how can we respond to that unease or disquiet that can sit with us, otherwise that can grow un-checked to be a loud and insistent voice that disrupts our sleep, our concentration, and our sense of joy? Recognise worry for the con that it is Worry convinces us that it will make us better prepared, when in fact it often traps us in a spiral that prevents us from taking practical actions to manage our reality. On the next page you can see some of the unhelpful thinking styles that can increase worry, anxiety and stress. Recognising and challenging them can help you to escape the spiral of doom. Practice acceptance of uncertainty If you start to feel yourself spinning into that spiral, take a few moments to focus on the here and now. Remind yourself that here in this moment, it is ok not to know everything for certain. In this moment, you are safe, and you are secure. Focus on your breathing and your body. Notice the sights, sounds and smells around you. Breathe in and out slowly and deliberately relax your muscles. Plan for what you can control. Once we have challenged the unhelpful thinking, we are better able to focus on what we can control. These might be small things but taking action over the things we can control, and planning based on what we do know, can help to build our sense of power and confidence. “What would I advise a friend to do?” can be a great prompt to focus on the practical and to set compassionate expectations for ourselves. Take care of yourself Challenging worry is easier said than done. It is tiring and challenging, which layers over the challenge of having COVID-19 in our lives. Be kind to yourself. Take a moment to identify the things that are restful and restorative for you – whether it is doing things that are fun, getting outside, getting your body moving or simply completing regular daily routines. You are not alone. Reach out to friends, family, your workmates or your manager. Make use of the support services designed for you. The Ministry of Health COVID-19 Mental Health and wellbeing resources page has a really good directory of services, websites and resources.