Safe decision-making as COVID-19 restrictions ease

Decision-making can be difficult, especially after stress or traumatic events, like the COVID-19 pandemic.

We’re all been through a tumultuous past few months. The threat from the virus continues and the need for caution is ongoing.

While public health advice guides us, there are still decisions each of us must make particular to our own personal circumstance.

When to return to the office? Should I visit the city from my remote or regional area? Do I want to attend a party, funeral or wedding? How to care for my elderly parents? Should I catch a bus?

These types of choices involve levels of decision making about what is safe for ourselves, our family, friends and communities.

Decision-making during recovery

Our emergency teams have been through many disasters and emergencies and out of these have insights into safe decision-making, which we share here.

 Take your time   to make decisions that are right for you 

 Weigh up   the complexity and look at all the moving parts 

 Identify   what is important to you, your values and guiding principles 

 Alternatives   Consider any alternatives and other options 

 High-risk decisions   Make sure you understand the consequences of high-risk decisions 

 Personal reactions   Consider how people will react to your decisions 

 Use a pros and cons list   it can help guide your decision making 

 Maintain vigilance   with your personal hygiene. This is the key to being safe, and keeping others safe 

 If it doesn’t feel right   then best not to do it. If in doubt, sit it out 

Some people find it more difficult to adjust to life after a stressful event than they expect, and may require more support from your community.

Some people may need further support after a major personal crisis. If this is you, consider seeking professional help. Contact Beyond Blue or Lifeline to get started.

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