Jan 01

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing during the COVID-19 outbreak

We recognise that COVID-19 may be causing concern, worry and distress in the community. In times of need, our community must come together and support each other. There are actions you can take to ensure the wellbeing of yourself, your family, colleagues and your community.

Access good quality information

It’s important to get accurate information from credible sources such as those listed below. This will also help you maintain perspective and feel more in control.

Look out for each other

It is essential that we look out for each other at this time. If you’re worried about someone you know, pick up the phone and talk to them.

Lifeline, Beyond Blue and Kids Helpline are continuing to operate 24/7.

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

There are also some reliable online resources that have been put together:

Australian Government support

The Australian Government has announced a range of measures to support people through this time.

Additional Mental Health funding

The Australian Government has committed an additional $74 million to mental health services to help Australians in distress during COVID-19. The measures announced in March include:

  • A 24/7 phone counselling service led by Beyond Blue, staffed by accredited mental health professionals
  • Additional funding for Lifeline and Kids Helpline to meet increased demand
  • A dedicated mental health and wellbeing program for frontline health workers
  • Expansion of the Community Visitors Scheme to ensure older people receive support
  • headspace will increase its digital work and study service to help younger Australians in education and training
  • Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) will develop a set of culturally appropriate mental health and wellbeing resources for First Australians
  • Increased funding for Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA) to bolster its free helpline
  • A targeted mental health communications campaign as part of the broader COVID-19 campaign
  • Expansion of the Head to Health gateway
  • Investment in the Australian Psychological Society’s Find a Psychologist website

Most importantly during this time, keep an eye on yourself, your family and your community. Make sure that you follow guidelines including social distancing while out in public. One person can make a difference. We will get through this crisis together.

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

About The Author

Suicide Prevention Australia remembers those we have lost to suicide and acknowledges the suffering suicide brings when it touches our lives. We are brought together by experience and unified by hope.
At Suicide Prevention Australia, we acknowledge and respect the Traditional Custodians and cultural knowledge holders of the lands upon which we live and work.
Imagine a world without suicide.
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