Are you feeling anxious or depressed due to the ongoing lockdowns and disruption in your daily routine?
According to experts, it is understandable to feel distressed and anxious in times of change.
They suggest that if you feel overwhelmed, it is important to ask for help from a professional.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) has affected our lives in many ways.
Many may feel lonely and isolated due to limited connection with others especially their loved ones.
It is important that people get help early as some challenging issues can turn into more serious conditions if they are not addressed quickly.
You can talk to your general practitioner (GP) and/or Contacting a mental health telephone, text or online counselling service or a general counsellor.
If you are struggling with complex feelings, here are some links to help you:
- Lifeline Australia Phone 13 11 14 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Beyond Blue Phone 1800 512 348 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- eheadspace 1800 650 893 – Online and webchat support
- Phone 1300 096 269 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- MensLine Phone 1300 78 99 78 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- Mindspot Phone 1800 61 44 34 (8am – 8pm, Monday – Friday; 8am-6pm, Saturday)
- Partners in Wellbeing Phone 1300 375 330
WATCH VIDEO: Clinical Psychologist Dr Michelle Lim explains how to deal with loss of control.
Dr Michelle Lim is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at Swinburne University and leads the Social Health and Wellbeing (SHAW) Laboratory.
For your mental wellbeing, experts propose that there are a number of things you can do:
1. Maintain a healthy diet, exercise and sleep regime.
2. Keep the conversation going – talking to loved ones about any worries and concerns.
3. Engage in hobbies and enjoyable activities at home.
4. Be prepared – ensure you have enough food, supplies and medication on hand. Ask for help collecting these items if needed.
5. Avoid or reduce your use of alcohol and tobacco.
If you are feeling less connected as a result of coronavirus (COVID-19) you can call the Victorian Government’s Coronavirus Hotline (1800 675 398) and press 3.