Different strokes for different folks

In case you missed our Social Worker Heather Clay’s interview on Radio Wānaka a few weeks ago, here’s a summary of her advice when it comes to preparing for and dealing with Omicron in our community.

·       If you’re feeling anxious or unsure about what’s to come, seek reassurance from those around you. That might be neighbours or whānau who are feeling more prepared, or it might be Community Networks/LINK, your medical centre or another social service agency involved in your care – particularly if you have additional health or economic needs, are elderly, or are living or parenting alone.

·       As Mike said on the radio, it’s different strokes for different folks. If you are feeling relatively calm and prepared, then look around for those who might need a helping hand. Could you offer to bring food or medications to another family if they have to self-isolate, reassure a neighbour who is feeling nervous, or help someone else prepare?

·       Make a plan for if you need to self-isolate with your household and with your workplace/school. There’s heaps of guidance on the COVID-19 website. Get the information now, so you’re ready to go if/when you need to.

·       Community Networks/LINK are part of an overall national response plan under the Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Ministry of Social Development’s (MSD). We act as the conduit for information and support in our community, and can assist with food and other practical support for those in economic difficulty who are self-isolating.  We also can provide social work support by phone or in-person.

·       Community Networks/LINK services continue to operate from the Wānaka Community Hub. Our team has split into ‘bubbles’ so that we can continue to provide a face-to-face service, but you will always be able to reach us by phone Monday-Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm on 03 443 7799.

·       Finally, remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Around the world, we are seeing communities moving through COVID-19 and moving on. We can do this too.

As the impacts of COVID-19 hit home, it’s okay to be feeling a bit unsettled. Now’s a good time to do what you can to support your own wellbeing and check in with your whānau, neighbours, friends and colleagues to see how they are. We all need a bit of extra support every now and again so if you, or someone you know, is struggling, help is available. 

You can find information and tools to support your own and others’ mental wellbeing and on the Ministry of Health website. In particular, there is a comprehensive list of free tools and apps for adults, parents and young people – from e-therapy courses to at-home activities for parents and caregivers to support their children.

The Te Hau Toka Southern Lakes Wellbeing Group also have a range of wellbeing resources available on their website, and publish regional health/wellbeing news and tips on their Facebook page.

And if you or someone you know is struggling, you can call or text 1737 to talk with a trained counsellor for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.