Mental Health, COVID-19 and Getting Support

𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥! We are experiencing a very challenging time with the health crisis and COVID-19. People have lost their jobs and businesses have been forced to close. Everyone is restricted to their home with specific exceptions, and are unable to meet or see family and friends. We must wear masks and there is a curfew. Children are learning from home. Every day we hear about people being unwell and dying. There is uncertainty about the future - both the short and longer term.  It is natural to experience anxiety, grief and loss, loneliness and isolation, low mood and depression. Many people - including those that usually cope very well - have struggled at times.  𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐨 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭.  In recognition of this, on the weekend the government announced additional funding for mental health support. 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 From Friday - 7th August - people can access up to 20 psychology sessions under the Medicare system. This is an increase of 10 sessions. This is very welcome news.  𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭? Visit your GP and ask for a referral to a psychologist in your area. They will prepare a mental health care plan and can usually recommend a psychologist. You can also check out the Australian Psychological Society website - see the link. If you already have a plan, you will need to see your GP for a review.  Reach out for support. Don’t put it off. https://www.psychology.org.au/Find-a-Psychologist