Well being in covid delta outbreak

 The SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 has undergone genetic mutations over time as it adapts to humans, leading to the development of new variants of the virus. One of these new variants, the Delta variant, is swiftly becoming the dominant variant globally.

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on how we interact with others, go about our lives, our work, study and many other aspects of our lives. We know that a combination of stress and uncertainty can have significant and wide-reaching impacts on the mental wellbeing of people in New Zealand. People should know it is normal to not feel all right all the time – it’s understandable to feel sad, distressed, worried, confused, anxious or angry during this crisis. Everyone reacts differently to difficult events, and some may find this time more challenging than others. The ways people think, feel and behave are likely to change over time – we all have good days and bad days.

During this time, you may be looking for new or additional ways to help you feel mentally well and get through. Here you can find information on tools to support your own and others’ mental wellbeing and where to get help if you need it.

Keep your usual routines: If you're working from home, stick to your usual mealtimes, bedtimes, etc, as structure helps keep us grounded and calm. 

Don’t overwork: Don't forget to clock off as becoming over-tired or fatigued isn’t going to help your mental wellbeing or your organisation.

Eat well: Choose healthy foods that help boost mental health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables; wholegrain bread, rice and pasta; and legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas. Keep sugary, salty and foods high in saturated fats to a minimum. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Keep active: Even if you don't feel comfortable going to the gym, try to get some exercise. Head outside - garden, go out for a walk or run, but still keep your distance from others. Search the internet for some yoga, Tai Chi or stretch routines, which can also be calming. 

Connect: Keep in touch with family and whānau, friends and workmates. Depending on the COVID-19 situation, and people's health, you may need to keep a physical distance. 

Level 3 lockdown in Auckland- 3 days

Unfortunately, It was another level 3 lockdown in Auckland. And as per government instructions Auckland was closed for 3 days. At this stage, teachers will continue online classes via google hangouts, emails or google docs. We can understand sudden announcements of the lockdown by the Prime Minister shocked everyone but we have to face this situation and be strong. So that we can fight with COVID-19.

Children and young people look to adults for guidance on how to react to stressful events. If parents or teachers seem overly worried, children’s and young people’s anxiety may rise. Parents and teachers can reassure children and young people that everyone is working together, from the Prime Minister down, to help people throughout the country stay healthy and to limit the spread of this virus.

As a teacher thinks about how your reactions could impact the learners. Take a quick break if things feel overwhelming, or notice and try some slow breathing, or concentrate on the sounds outside, anything that you know helps. You can express your feelings but base your words on facts and truth, and model how you want children and young people around you to behave. 

Our school is helping children continue their learning, online classes, Mentoring sessions and delivery of food packages. This will support their wellbeing, connection with others and their learning. Contact students via emails, texts, or phone calls are very important to know about how they are going or how they take care of themselves and their loved ones.