Feeling overwhelmed by all the Covid-19 coverage?

At this unique time in history we encourage you to buy into facts, not frenzy.

With the situation constantly unfolding, getting access to reliable information and advice is crucial.  So everyone, please: follow trusted sources like the ones we’ve listed below, try not to panic and, most importantly, remember to keep washing your hands!

Reputable sources of information

• World Health Organization (WHO)

• Australian Medical Association (AMA)

• Australian Department of Health

• Smartraveller (information for Australian travellers)

• Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO)

• Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)

Another interesting source is this online interactive dashboard, which was created by researchers from Johns Hopkins University in mid-February. Using official data from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), WHO and others, as well as local media reports, it shows the path of COVID-19 around the world, in real-time. Please be aware that the numbers shown are for confirmed or presumed cases only – as testing is limited in many countries, actual numbers are likely higher.

Your mental health matters – Where to go for support

It’s important to stay informed, but it’s also completely understandable if you feel worried after watching news reports and reading endless updates and alerts.

We urge you to switch off from all news sources for at least part of the day and do something that makes you happy and takes your mind off things. It’s vital that you look after not only your physical health and wellbeing at this time but also your mental health.

Lifeline has some other great tips and strategies – things like staying connected; dealing with social distancing, self-isolation or quarantine; managing your wellbeing; and helping children cope through the craziness that is COVID-19. To read it in full, click here.

But if you feel you need some help, please do seek it. There are excellent services offering a sympathetic ear and expert support, including:

• Lifeline: phone on 13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days)

• Lifeline: text on 0477 13 11 14 (6pm–midnight, AEDT, 7 nights a week)

• Lifeline: chat online – https://www.lifeline.org.au/crisis-chat (7pm–midnight, AEDT, 7 nights a week)

As we all enter into the most confusing, concerning time of our lives, please keep looking after yourselves and your loved ones, and stay safe.