Member Article

Advice on Coping with the Third Wave

The last 18 months have been like no other that any of us have known in our lifetime.

Challenges thrown into our lives by the pandemic have recently started to ease, but as the North East seems to be moving into a third wave, particularly with the Delta variant, Steve Black (Blackie) offers some advice on how to cope with isolation and keep our motivation going!

“Personally, I now know more people than I have at any other point in the last 18 months to be testing positive with Covid, or to be having to isolate because they have been in close contact with someone who has. Many bars and restaurants are having to temporarily close due to staff members testing positive, and schools have whole school years depleted of students and teachers. Sports clubs are affected, and even at the Euro’s a player tested positive daily.

“It definitely feels like the third wave but there is something infinitely more lonely about this one. As the country is no longer in general lockdown and we are moving into a period where we hope restrictions will be lifted, suddenly testing positive or being in isolation is something you are doing on your own. You look at social media and it seems that a large chunk of everyone else is getting on with life normally. But you are stuck at home and suddenly missing out on a life that could be happening if you hadn’t the NHS app ping or test result.

“Plans having to be cancelled because of isolation or illness is causing more mental health and stress than the first unprecedented lockdown. People are struggling with being so close to having a night out in a restaurant, a visit to the cinema or a short break away that to have it snatched away just before it happens is soul destroying. So how do we cope with this and what tips can I give?

“Water. I know this sounds a bit daft but it is important to keep your uptake of fluids high if you are isolating or poorly. It’s easy to forget to drink enough if you are getting up late or just sitting around bored. But without that fluid your brain becomes foggy, your body becomes sluggish and you actually damage your immune system. So keep that water flowing and drink as much as you would on a normal healthy day, if not a little bit more! You can count tea, juice and cordial towards that intake too.

“Stimulation. As soon as you are told you are in isolation make a list of things to achieve in the next 10 days. Obviously if you test positive what you can do will be down to how poorly you are, but if you are fit and well, make that list. And mix up the jobs. Make it a combination of jobs around the house you have been meaning to do for ages, and relaxing activities you normally don’t have time for. Amazon and B&Q deliver all DIY supplies you’ll need. And with Amazons next day delivery you can order books, games, jigsaws, crafts, exercise equipment…. You name it! And let’s face it, we all have multiple ways to watch TV now so catch up on some films – ask friends and family for recommendations and use the evenings to relax and rebuild your energy.

“Movement. It’s really important you continue to move as much as possible. Just because you can’t go to the gym, for a walk or run or are moving as you would naturally to go out to work, shopping or socialising doesn’t mean you should stop! Plan in some exercise each day. Walk up and down stairs as much as possible. Use household items to lifts as weights. Play with the kids or pets in the garden. Just keep moving and that will keep your mind focused and clear!

“Contact. Remember to keep in touch with loved and friends and family. Use the phone and zoom to hear voices. Ask them to walk by and say hello from the end of your drive. Most of us now can work from home, so keep your usual working hours and keep in touch with colleagues or clients. It can be done, but if your living environment is too stressful, communicate what you are going through – most employers and clients will fully understand.

“Replan and rebook – any arranged events, breaks, holidays, nights out etc you have to cancel, spend time rearranging. Most accommodations are giving full refund if you can’t go because of isolation, so get online and rebook somewhere to look forward to when you can get out!

“Focus and plan. Some quiet time at home is a great time for reflection. What do you want to achieve for the rest of this year? Grab a note pad and make some plans. Focus on who you want to see and what you want and use this time to decide what would be the best version of you and how to get there. Research, find the support you need and start a bigger cog turning!

“Most of all, know that it will pass. I know some people with large families heading into the equivalent of a month’s isolation. It’s a long time but it isn’t forever and you are doing your bit to keep others safe… well done you!”

Steve Black is a well-known face in the sporting world who has taken his expertise in making people fit in the mind as well as fit in the body through his corporate facing business, Protean Solutions.

Steve Black, or Blackie as he is better known, has been focussing lately on working with both individuals and organisations driving motivation, teamwork, leadership and excellence in the workplace.

His portfolio is impressive, with big names including Kevin Keegan, Rob Andrew, Jonny Wilkinson, Jonathan Edwards and Glen McCrory endorsing the former Newcastle Falcons and British Lions rugby coach. He now works with companies including Cascade Cash Management, The John McEnroe Academy and Fairstone to name a few.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Anna Toms .