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Reintroducing restrictions is tough on our mental health – let’s face it together
With Victoria reintroducing restrictions and New South Wales on ‘high alert’, the National Mental Health Commission is encouraging all Australians to continue to prioritise their mental health and wellbeing during the continuing challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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The Commission’s CEO, Christine Morgan, acknowledged that as Australia continues to chart our way through this pandemic, changing restrictions are meaning that many of us have to adapt the new routines we have created in recent months.
“This is a challenge for all of us as we hoped for a steady return to a more normal way of life. As we come to grips with the way the virus moves around communities we must remember we are all in this together. For those of us going back into restrictions, our mental health and sense of wellbeing may be challenged again.”
“It is important to remember that things can get better,” said Ms Morgan. “We are seeing that for many of us our mental health and wellbeing are recovering as restrictions ease.”
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Household Impacts of COVID-19 Surveyshows that fewer people in June reported experiencing personal stress (24% compared to 43% in April) or suffering from loneliness (9% compared to 22% in April). However, while fewer people reported feelings associated with anxiety and depression, those still facing significant mental health and wellbeing challenges include younger people and those experiencing unemployment and financial stress as a result of the pandemic.
Other people facing significant challenges include those suffering violence and abuse from a current or former partner. “If you are experiencing or fear violence at home, remember help is available and it is always okay to leave the house to seek support if you are in danger, even as we are physically isolating. Re-introducing restrictions does not mean you have to stay in your home under dangerous circumstances”.
“Let’s stay socially connected, make the effort to keep talking to friends and family and don’t hesitate to make contact with one of the many free support lines which are available or seek support with one of the professional services.”
For people living in Victoria experiencing family violence contact safe steps on 1800 015 188 or email safesteps@safesteps.org.au. The safe steps web chat support service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm www.safesteps.org.au
The Commission acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands throughout Australia. We pay our respects to their clans, and to the elders, past and present, and acknowledge their continuing connection to land, sea and community.
Diversity
The Commission is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination in the provision of health services. The Commission welcomes all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.
Lived Experience
We acknowledge the individual and collective contributions of those with a lived and living experience of mental ill-health and suicide, and those who love, have loved and care for them. Each person’s journey is unique and a valued contribution to Australia’s commitment to mental health suicide prevention systems reform.
