As lockdowns are extended in Auckland and the Waikato, we are reminded once again that COVID-19 is still with us. Our hope to return to normal life sooner rather than later, has been set back once again. It's fair to say it's been a challenging 18 months for us all.

Here are three tips to help you get through pandemic fatigue and stress:

1. Acknowledge your experience of the pandemic

COVID-19 presents each person with their own set of tiring challenges, so try not to compare your situation to that of others, and focus on what you can do to get through this.

2. Balance what you think and talk about

Try to strike a balance between acknowledging the current reality of living through a pandemic and focusing on other important or meaningful aspects of your life.

3. Create opportunities to experience positive emotions

Every day, plan, schedule, and make sure you do at least one activity that is fun, pleasurable, relaxing or enjoyable, and at least one activity that gives you a sense of productivity, achievement, meaning or satisfaction.