Keep calm and read

By Staff anne Reddacliff | 1 April 2020

The world is a scary and confusing place right now, but we want you to stay calm. State Library is providing you with a list of things you can do to calm your nerves in this troubling time and keep your sanity when things feel out of control.

1. Read a book: Reading is good for your mental health. It helps you to escape to other worlds, gain new perspectives and is a marvellous source of entertainment. It can also provide a voice of reason and a source of information. And it doesn’t have to be a physical book. State Library has plenty of ebooks for you to read! We’ve even tagged a list of #bookstosurviveapandemic

Sir John Beals Chandler and Lady Chandler at home, 1952, State Library of Queensland, John Oxley Library, Negative No. 114864

2. Make something: Do some craft or sewing and channel your worries into a creative outlet. This helps to relieve stress and anxiety. If you’re wanting to learn how to sew or create you can also consult our list of #bookstosurviveapandemic which will help with inspiration.

3. Listen to music: Listening to music is soothing and is said to transport you back to childhood. You can listen to classical music through our database Music Online: Classical Music Library. Listening to some relaxing might help your mood start to lift. Potentially you will feel calmer and more in control.

Two women in uniforms sitting down and listening to records

Members of the Women’s Auxillary Air Force relaxing in their new accommodation, State Library of Queensland, John Oxley Library, Negative No. 201039

4. Phone a friend: Sometimes just talking to someone can make you feel better. Call a friend and have a chat over the phone. It’s old school but it’s a way of keeping in touch. You can even call our friendly librarians on our Ask Us service from 9am to 5pm weekdays on (07) 3840 7810.

5. Write a gratitude journal: Keep a journal of all the things you are grateful for and remind yourself there is still love and care in the world.

So that’s five ways you can stay calm during the COVID-19 crisis. Remember State Library is here for you and helping you to look after your mental health.

Anne Reddacliff

Librarian, Information Services