Distress and anxiety as a possible side effect of the self isolation and physical distancing required to fight the spread of Covid-19

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The battle to overcome Covid-19 has introduced us to essential public health measures like self isolation and physical distancing in order to stop transmission of the virus. For some, this will cause distress and/or anxiety. These issues are explored by The Helen Clark Foundation Deputy Director, Holly Walker, in an article in The Spinoff. The New Zealand Government has responded to the implications of the isolation and distancing aspects of the lock down with a "Getting Through Together" campaign, which, among other things, offers tips for coping through the stress of the lock down. Here in an article for NZ Herald. Ministry of Health - Manatū Hauora World Health Organization (WHO) World Health Organization Western Pacific Region

Holly Walker is now preparing a further paper with policy recommendations for dealing with issues related to loneliness drawing on what we are learning about our society and our capacity to respond during this very unusual period. of the state of emergency and lock down. Watch this space, and follow The Helen Clark Foundation's website. We welcome memberships and donations for the policy work we do.