Melbourne lockdown: Beyond Blue’s record rise in mental health support calls during coronavirus – Herald Sun

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Exhaustion, fatigue and distress at the reintroduction of lockdown could be behind a double in the number of calls to an Aussie mental health organisation in the past fortnight.
Beyond Blue has reported people contacting its support service have spiked with more than half of calls for help nationally coming from Victorian households last week.
This comes as Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced Melbourne metropolitan and the Mitchell Shire would be locked down with State 3 restrictions reintroduced.
Beyond Blue chair Julia Gillard said mental health support was always on hand, with online advice, professional phone counselling or online peer support available to help people cope with isolation, financial stress and family pressure.
“People are seeking support in record numbers, which in many ways is good news because reaching out early can make it much easier to resolve mental health issues,” Ms Gillard said.
She said Melburnians were making a big sacrifice for the greater good and they need is kindness and compassion.
“Having been through this before, many people will be well equipped to get through the next six weeks,” Ms Gillard said.
“However, it is totally normal to be feeling worried, frustrated, or isolated.
“I encourage anyone who is struggling to cope, or people whose existing mental health conditions are exacerbated by the current situation, to seek support.”
Beyond Blue chief executive Georgie Harman said since last year calls to the organisation’s support services had increased by 66 per cent in April, 60 per cent in May, and 47 per cent in June.
“Early on in the coronavirus pandemic, people were reporting feeling worried, uncertain or overwhelmed and they were dealing with loneliness or family pressure,” Ms Harman said.
“In more recent times we’ve seen more talk of exhaustion, fatigue, and concerns about the reintroduction of social restrictions.
“I want to reassure people that these feelings are totally normal given the circumstances and that Beyond Blue is available to provide support around the clock.
“It’s important to remember you don’t have to be feeling severe symptoms to seek support.”
She said if anyone is feeling stressed or concerned about the reintroduction of restrictions, talk to a family member, a trusted friend, a GP or a counsellor at Beyond Blue’s support services.
“Accessing our support services is free and counsellors can provide immediate advice and referrals.”
Ms Harman said business owners and sole traders concerned about the pandemic’s effect on their livelihoods can also access free advice to help get their business and health back on track.
The free coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service is available 24/7 online or by phoning 1800 512 348.
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