Some basic psychosocial skills we need to know👬

 BASIC PSYCHOSOCIAL SKILLS 

A guide for COVID -19 responders.

Looking after yourself and your team members while working in the  Covid-19 response is not a luxury. It is a responsibility. There is no response without you. You are an essential part of COVID -19 responders. It can feel rewarding to know that you are making a difference.

Many people will feel stressed and exhausted while working in the COVID-19 response. If stress is consistently stopping you from doing daily activities( e.g. going to work) then seek professional support.

The first and most important thing is looking after yourself. Try as far as possible to act on some of the suggestions below to help you manage stress on a daily basis. Choose those work best for you personally. If you do not manage to do this one day, be kind to yourself and try again the next day.

1. Stay up to date with the accurate COVID-19 information and follow safety measures to prevent infection. Take breaks from COVID-19 media when needed.

2. Eat well, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly.

3. Do an activity you enjoy or find meaningful every day (e.g. art, reading, painting, writing, crafts, listening to music or radio, prayers, talking to friends, tourism or playing sports, etc.).

4. Take five minutes out of your day to talk to a friend, family member, or other trusted family member with whom you are feeling well and comfortable.

5. Talk to your manager, supervisor, or colleagues about your well-being at work, particularly if you are worried about working in the COVID-19 response.

6. Establish a daily and easy routine for yourself.

7. Minimize your use of alcohol, drugs, caffeine, or nicotine. These might seem to help in the short term, but they can lead to lower mood, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and even aggression as the effects wear off.  

8. At the end of each day, make a shortlist ( in your head or on paper) of ways you were able to help others or things you are grateful for, such as "I helped by being kind to someone who was upset" or " helping someone by offering money or help them in the time of need, helping others to help themselves. In short, if you find yourself to be in difficulty or distress, show kindness to others, and you will be the first to find solace and comfort.

9. Be realistic about what you can and can not control.

10. Try an activity to relax- see what works for you. You may already have some activities you use now or have used in the past. You can also try slow breathing, stretching, dancing, praying, or doing yoga; progressive muscle relaxation, and do whatever you like to.

11. Smile and try to make yourself and others to be happy.

Thank you 

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