Here are some useful tips for taking care of yourself during this time of widespread community stress:
Routines ‘Familiarity is comforting’
- Keep up normal activities
- Treasure familiar things
Stay connected ‘We need each other’
- Stay in touch with family and friends
- Take moments to give others your full attention
- Listen and answer children’s questions simply
- Be brave for each other
- Ask for and accept help
Save your energy ‘Keep it for important things’
- Lower expectations of yourself and others
- Take breaks and lighten your workload
- Be tolerant of yourself and others
- Lots of things can wait
- Children may act younger – that’s ok for a while
Lifestyle ‘Balance is healthy’
- Stay active e.g. go for a walk
- Relax – take a break
- Limit alcohol
- Try to get enough sleep
- Try to eat well
- Do something nice for yourself
Safety ‘Protect yourself in every way’
- Limit exposure to earthquake news e.g. TV
- You are not helpless – remember the things you do well
- Take care of your spiritual and emotional health
- It is ok to be emotional
For extra support
contact your GP, or
phone the Government helpline 0800 779 997, or
go to www.canterburyearthquake.org.nz
New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists (NZCCP)
