MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Falklands' tips to help manage stress during the pandemic

Avoid excessive exposure to news and social media - Seek information updates at specific times of day, once or twice a day, from reputable sources.

The Falklands government has offered some advice on how to endure the pandemic. It is understandable if you are worried about your safety and that of your loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is natural that we want to know exactly what is going on, but the current level of uncertainty and lack of control can make us feel unsafe and anxious.

Here are some tips to reduce this:

• Avoid excessive exposure to news and social media - Seek information updates at specific times of day, once or twice a day, from reputable sources.
• Limit the time you spend talking about the virus, and ask people to respect your decision not to discuss it.
• Reassure children that it’s going to be okay. Let them talk about their worries, but limit their exposure to news, social media and adult conversations.
• Control the things you can control – wash your hands, avoid touching your face and follow social distancing guidelines. Check on your friends and neighbors (especially more vulnerable people) and offer to help out where you can.
• Look after yourself! Do things that make you feel relaxed and safe.
• Stay in touch with friends and family via phone and social media.

Local support is also available as a 7-day service from the emotional wellbeing team at KEMH on 28082.

You may also find the following contacts helpful:

Samaritans (UK based charity): 51515 or email jo@samaritans.org
NSPCC: 28888
Citizens Advice Bureau: 55355
Falkland Island Community Volunteers: volunteers@sec.gov.fk or 22829