COVID-19 and staff wellbeing

It’s increasingly clear that coronavirus (COVID-19) will be affecting our lives for the foreseeable future. However, there are measures we can all take to minimise disruption and help our colleagues, the broader community and of course ourselves focus on our health and wellbeing during this period.

Stay healthy!

We all need to work together to help slow the spread of COVID-19. It’s important to follow government guidelines to protect your own health and the health of those around you.

Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water, for 20 seconds. Google ‘Coronavirus hand washing songs’ for some awesome 20 second singalongs. Use hand sanitiser along with handwashing.

Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces regularly. Don’t ignore your phone, keyboard and computer mouse.

Sneeze and cough into a tissue, or into the crook of your arm if you don’t have a tissue. Dispose of tissues straight away, then head back to point #1.

Avoid touching your face. We realise that just saying ‘avoid touching your face’ will make you want to touch it, but please resist the urge.

Don’t disregard social distancing. Social distancing is one of the best things we can do to stop the spread of COVID-19. Stay 1.5 metres apart wherever possible and avoid contact with others. Leave the handshakes and high fives at home.

If you feel at all unwell, don’t tough it out. Seek medical advice and help protect your own health and the health of those around you.

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Find out more about COVID-19 and the key points you need to know at the Australian Government Department of Health website.

Take care of your mental health

Most staff returned to campus around the middle of the year but continue to deal with changes on campus and in other activities, including adaptation, disruption and uncertainty around the progression of COVID-19 in communities. Don’t disregard the effect these changes may have on your mental health.

Be strategic about the COVID-19 news you consume – stick to reputable sources and consider reducing over-exposure, especially through social media. Keep in mind that the current restrictions and recommendations are a positive sign of proactive management.

Find out more about maintaining a healthy headspace at Mental Health Coalition of South Australia.

Or check out our own Mike Kyrios’ tips on how to handle self-isolation, and The Australian Psychological Society's tips for coping with coronavirus anxiety.

View the list of mental health resources we've compiled.

Don't feel alone

We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented, and a level of confusion and anxiety is to be expected as we all deal with rapid and sometimes profound changes to our day-to-day lives. However, you’re not expected to deal with these changes alone.

Flinders has a robust Employee Assistance Program set up to help you throughout this period. Participation is voluntary, and completely confidential.

Assistance can be provided for a variety of personal, emotional or work-related problems including: