How to Cope With COVID Lockdowns and Restrictions While Studying

Stay safe and mentally healthy.

Australia once again ventures into uncertain times thanks to the Delta variant of COVID-19. Lockdowns are in place for NSW, WA, QLD and the NT while other states have tightened restrictions to prevent locking down themselves.

Of course, keeping every Aussie healthy and COVID free is the highest priority, but for students, falling behind in schoolwork and declining mental health are some very real side effects of changing restrictions.

To help combat these, here is our guide to help students cope with COVID lockdowns and restrictions while studying.

Make mental health your priority.

If you aren’t mentally healthy, then everything else just won’t feel like it’s working, so first things first: make mental health a priority.

Changing circumstances around Australia ‘cos of COVID can cause a spike in anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.

If you’re struggling, reach out to a friend, your family or a health care professional who can help you get better.

Set up a study space.

With all the changes happening around us, it’s a little harder to sit down and focus on studying when at home. Time to set up a study space that makes you want to study.

Make this place the comfiest spot in your home (second to your bed of course). Get a hot water bottle or some blankets if it’s cold, slap on some lo-fi study beats and round it out with a good chair to get you in the zone.

As tempting as it is, don't study on your bed. You wanna separate rest and work zones otherwise you may find it difficult to sleep.

Ask for help if you’re falling behind.

If you think you’re falling behind in course work, don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for help. Reach out to friends, family or even your teachers for help.

Since schools are still open, you have a direct line to the teacher. Take advantage of that opportunity to help you understand a problem or concept that is proving hard.

There is nothing wrong with asking for help; it shows great maturity to admit you need it.

Exercise when you can.

For the states that are in lockdown, being restricted to your house can get a little claustrophobic, so take advantage of the one hour per day exercise limit and get outside. Just check your state's restrictions before heading outside.

All the other states not in lockdown, we still suggest exercising for an hour every day 'cos it's great for your mental wellbeing. Plus, a little fresh air never hurt anyone.

Stay in touch with friends.

Thankfully, most schools—barring a few that are deemed COVID hotspots—have remained open so that makes socialising with your mates a lot easier. But after school and weekends are a different story. To stay sane inside, keep up regular contact with your mates.

There’s a range of ways to do that now including online gaming, watch parties on Disney+ and Amazon Prime, video calls, House Party video chats, or just a good old fashion phone call.

This is also an opportunity to spend some quality time with your family and roommates. Maybe try cooking a meal together or playing a boardgame. Just not Monopoly, that causes fights.

Are you experiencing suicidal thoughts, sexual assault or domestic and family violence? Seeking to support someone who is? Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Header Image: Daniel Pockett / Stringer via Getty Images