People are being encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing and support one another in the wake of the new Covid-19 cases outside managed isolation.
New Zealanders are encouraged to exercise, get enough rest and check in with loved ones during level 2 and 3 of lockdown. Photo: Glenda Wakeham
After 102 days without community transmission, there have been four positive cases of Covid-19 outside of managed isolation or quarantine.
They are the first cases acquired from an unknown source. New Zealand has now activated a resurgence plan.
The Mental Health Foundation is urging people to continue the spread of kindness and support as the country enters uncertainty.
Its chief executive Shaun Robinson has encouraged people to use free apps as a self-help tool to manage wellbeing.
There is also a free national helpline 1737 if people are struggling to cope with anxiety, as Auckland goes back into level 3 lockdown and the rest of the country level 2.
Robinson said the country had come through the lockdown together before, "we can get through this situation again."
He suggested people look back on their lockdown routine and start implementing practices they put in place to prepare themselves.
People should repeat learned behaviours of resting well, exercising, checking in with loved ones and asking for support and help when they are struggling, he said.
"Look for the little things each day that bring joy," people must remain optimistic the small outbreak can be brought under control, he said.
"Take reassurance that New Zealand has done incredibly well at managing Covid-19. There is no reason not to believe we won't manage this small outbreak again."
As for addiction services - it is likely that group meetings would slot back into their lockdown approaches which could involve Zoom meetings, he said.
But, looking ahead, if the three day restrictions continue beyond Friday - the habits of supporting one another and taking each day as it comes is the best approach to manage stress and anxiety.
People must not worry about tomorrow, we will get through this again, he said.
Where to get help:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
What's Up: online chat (3pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 helpline (12pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-11pm weekends)
Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.