When New Zealand went into lockdown 6 weeks ago it was a time of excitement, but also uncertainty. There were many things to be excited about, but also lots of unknowns.

Six weeks on, the reality of lockdown has sunk in. Having no social interaction outside of our bubbles, along with the draining routine of online classes, has been a major adjustment for all of us. This is a different world, like nothing we have ever experienced, and like I’m sure you’ve been told, it’s ok to feel not quite yourself. 

As we begin to go back to school, another time of change awaits us. For many, school activities that we have looked forward to have been postponed / cancelled, and feeling lost is ok. Setting up a good routine will help make the transition easier. Three easy changes to aim for:

Exercise 

Go to the park, or the beach, change up the routine every few days!

Now that we have made it to level three, the guidelines have been loosened around our options for exercise. Take the chance to make the most of our time left in this level, and spend time appreciating the environment surrounding your bubble. Even going for a family walk on a new path can really boost your motivation, if you are struggling to concentrate on your schoolwork.

Sleep 

Sleeping 8 - 10 hours is recommended and this is one of the best things you can do to improve your mood. Use the time we have before changing alert levels and returning back to school to regulate your sleep schedule - this will make the transition a lot easier.

Kindness 

Do something kind in your bubble for your family, cooking dinner just once can make a massive difference to the family environment. Supporting those in your bubble will help not just yourself feel better but make the last little bit of our strict lockdown more enjoyable for the entire family! We have more time to spend with our family without the pressures of everyday life, so enjoy it.

Remember, the whole world is tackling this together, whatever you are feeling is normal and we will get through this!

For students, the school offers excellent mental health advice through our wonderful councillors Mrs Corbishley and Ms Turnbull, as well as Dr Macleod. To get in touch, send an email.

A new app has been developed that you may have seen advertised on television. Mentemia is an app that is for everyone to try. It has useful tips and reminders and some good relaxation techniques if you are feeling a little stressed.

https://www.mentemia.com/

For parents, there are three useful sites that were developed after the Christchurch earthquakes. These websites provide a huge range of readings and ideas for how to talk to your children and cope with the current situation.

https://sparklers.org.nz/parenting/

https://www.allright.org.nz/whanau-parenting

https://www.theworrybug.co.nz/

If you are struggling and need to talk, don't be afraid to reach out to one of the numerous professional services available.

1737, Need to talk? - Free call or text 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor

Depression.org.nz - 0800 111 757 or text 4202

Lifeline – 0800 543 354

Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz)

thelowdown.co.nz – Web chat, email chat or free text 5626