Psychology week aims to increase public awareness of how psychology can help Australians lead healthier, happier and more meaningful lives (www.psychweek.org.au, 2019).

 

Workplace Health and Safety Victoria not only offer psychology sessions to workplaces within group settings, but we also offer lunch time zoom sessions for your workplace and after discussion with the organiser, we determine a session which is tailored and suited to your workplace and colleagues.

 

According to the Australian Government (2020), the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, physical distancing and isolation can make us feel anxious, stressed and worried.

 

Tips on how to de-stress:

According to www.virtua.org (2020):

  • Change the environment: Do something pleasurable or relaxing for a little while such as read a book, take a walk or watch TV. If you are at work, step outside for some fresh air for a few minutes.
  • Practice breathing exercises: Focus on your breath, pushing all other thoughts aside.
  • Meditate: Meditation is about quieting the mind, not sitting cross-legged on the floor. Be in the moment noticing everything around you and observe without reacting – even a minute can make a difference.
  • Go for a walk or run: Exercise can be an excellent stress reliver.
  • Immense yourself in a creative outlet: Doing something creative that you enjoy like cooking, art or photography can take away from the stress at hand.
  • Express your feelings: Write down your stress away in a journal, or use your coloured pencils to focus your concentration on drawing.
  • Be in the moment with one of your senses: Sight, smell, sound and taste – you will be amazed when you focus on just one thing how quickly the stress can melt away.