Wellbeing on difficult days: a lockdown-era perspective
Aiming for One Good* Day in lockdown
By One Good* Day · Originally published 30 August 2021
Original article and dated context
One Good* Day is a leader in advocacy, peer mentorship and Psychosocial Recovery Coaching. We are focused on building relationships that can lead to positive change. Through zero judgement we build trust and take the hassle out of getting you the supports you need.
Whether you’ve only experienced it for a few days, or are still navigating restrictions in your city, being in lockdown can take a toll on your body, mind and spirit. You may feel flat, exhausted or even full of energy – no matter your experience, first know that what you’re feeling is valid and it’s okay to not be okay.
At One Good* Day, we’re on a mission to see our clients get just one good day (and another good day after that). So we thought we’d share some actions and activities you might like to try to make lockdown a little easier, whether you have a psychosocial disability or not.
Start by keeping it simple
When things around you are out of your control – or perhaps everyday feels like groundhog day – it can be a lot for your mind to process. Keep things simple – let’s use the Wheel of Wellbeing that One Good* Day NDIS Recovery Coach Uani talks about as a framework for your wellbeing in lockdown.
Mind
There’s a lot of research out there that talks about the benefits of life-long learning. Sometimes getting out of bed can be a big win for your mental health, so it’s important to take things one step at a time. Commit to making your bed or even brewing a cup of your favourite tea. Then, when you feel ready to, you could try picking up a new hobby (hello sourdough bread!).
Body
Moving your body is a key component of overall wellbeing. It doesn’t have to be anything strenuous either – going for a 30 minute walk everyday is a great way to bring in energy and get fresh air into your lungs.
Spirit
This part of the Wheel of Wellbeing is about giving. Practice saying ‘thank you’ for the little things others do for you or even do a few random acts of kindness – giving to others can pull you out of your head and increase your sense of connection and belonging.
People
Being in lockdown, especially if you live alone, can feel isolating. Tee up a walk with a close friend, schedule a Zoom dinner or even go ‘old school’ and give your bestie a call. Don’t wait to reach out to the ones you love, they’re probably feeling similarly to you.
Place
Nature is healing – head out on an adventure in your local area, walking through a park or two and stop to smell the roses (quite literally). Taking time to notice and practice gratitude for our environment is another way you can boost your mental health and wellbeing.
Planet
This is about the bigger picture. Taking care of Mother Earth can be as simple as riding your bike or walking to the shops instead of driving, or unplugging your phone charger to save electricity. How can you take care of the Earth in a small way today?
If you’re not coping, here’s what you can do
When lockdowns get extended or you’re uncertain about how life will be moving out of lockdown, there’s a few things you can do to self-soothe and make any transition a little easier on your mental health.
Even with tough restrictions you are likely still able to get outside. Go for a walk, run or do a little yoga – if possible, also aim to get 10-20 mins of sun on your skin, too (vitamin D is a great mood booster).
Notice your thoughts
When a negative thought pops into your head, notice it and ask yourself ‘how else could I think about my current situation?’ Are your thoughts making you feel better or worse? Is there another perspective you could consider? Instead of focusing on the restrictions and what you don’t have, could you appreciate all the things you do have?
Explore professional mental health support
If you have an NDIS plan that includes Recovery Coaching, One Good* Day can assist you to reach your goals and support you to get one good day in lockdown and beyond. And if you’re struggling, there’s support available via other organisations like Beyond Blue’s Coronavirus website and Lifeline.
Clickability editorial update: October 2026
Choose one useful step rather than a wellbeing checklist
Pick something that fits your energy, access and preferences today. That might be contacting someone, asking for practical help or adjusting a routine. You do not have to complete every part of the article’s framework or turn a hard day into a positive experience.
If distress is affecting everyday life, healthdirect recommends professional help. A recovery coach may help organise disability supports where appropriate, while clinical care has a different role. Ask what each professional can provide and how you want them to communicate with one another.
Offer help the person can accept or decline
Ask whether company, an errand or help arranging an appointment would be useful. Avoid assuming that gratitude, exercise or a new hobby will resolve their distress. Keep your own capacity visible too. Carer Gateway provides support for carers; using it does not require judging the person you support as the cause of a difficult day.
Questions readers ask
Is the article describing current lockdown restrictions?
No. The restrictions are historical.
Is recovery coaching clinical treatment?
It has a different disability-support role; discuss clinical concerns with an appropriate health professional. Official guidance
Find disability support for your current needs
Explain the practical support you are seeking and compare providers through Clickability. Ask about their role and how it fits alongside any clinical care.
