Wellbeing Wednesday: Staying safe as lockdown eases

Nothing is straightforward with this pandemic.

With the recent easing of lockdown restrictions, it may have seemed there was a chance we might soon be returning to normality.

Many public places like pubs and restaurants have reopened, but things are far from normal. Although it’s exciting to meet up with friends and family again, the glass screens and hand sanitisers we see everywhere are a constant reminder coronavirus is still a threat.

After months in isolation from others we need social interaction for our own mental wellbeing, but we all know behaving responsibly on safety is the right thing to do - for the sake of everyone who matters to us, our families, friends and loved ones, and of course our team mates at work

In times of such uncertainty, we all have to take responsibility for our own actions, ensuring we are well informed about the risks to ourselves, our families, our friends and our colleagues.

More than 500 health professionals and epidemiologists in the US reviewed the level of coronavirus transmission risk associated with everyday activities. These have been categorised as low, medium and high risk in the table above.

It is clear that the risk of infection remains high where there are large numbers of people gathering, particularly if this is in a confined space with little or no ventilation. The longer we spend in such high risk environments, the greater the chance of infection. 

Most of these risks can be managed through our own behaviour: frequent handwashing and practising social distancing for a start. 

The risk increases, however, if we are in places where other people are inclined to be less compliant. After drinking alcohol, for example, people may relax, let their guard down and forget about the restrictions in place.

We are all faced with some level of risk but, as John Neill reminded us last week, you should do everything you can to keep yourself and others safe.

Everyone feels slightly differently about what behaviour is acceptable, and what isn’t. The important thing is we all respect that, and resist pushing yourself or anyone else outside their comfort zone.

For more information on this infographic and other information about coronavirus visit the Information is Beautiful web page.

Our Employee Assistance Provider called LifeWorks, has a wide range of resources that can help to support you, and up to five members of your family, at this time.

If you are struggling, you can get free, confidential support from independent caring counsellors 24/7, via the phone number on 0800 169 1920 or through unipart.lifeworks.com or the LifeWorks mobile app. 

If you don't already have a log in, find out more about how to sign up here.