National charity Lifeline says that it received a record number of calls from Australians in crisis last month.
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88,700 calls were made to Lifeline in March, with a 25 per cent increase in calls to its 13 11 14 crisis service hotline.
A Lifeline spokesperson said that last Sunday, the service received 3175 calls, which is one call every 30 seconds.
"39 per cent of our calls in the past week have been coronavirus related, up 23 per cent the previous week," the spokesperson said.
"All indications are that these numbers will continue to rise and the mental health toll of this crisis will be something of a scale we have not seen or experienced before.
"We can't stress enough, the importance of seeking help if you need it."
Grow Victoria regional manager Rhett Chapman says that coronavirus has had a profound impact on the mental wellbeing of all Australians.
"Due to this unique event, those who would usually experience mild to moderate mental ill health may have found their symptoms compounded in recent times," Mr Chapman said.
Grow Victoria is part of a national network of community-based organisations who provide support to people struggling with their mental health.
Bendigo's Grow Group met every Tuesday from 7pm at the Olinda Street Centre for face-to-face support meetings prior to the coronavirus pandemic.
Those face-to-face encounters have been replaced by digital meetings, facilitated through Zoom video conference software.
"eGrow can help connect isolated Victorians by providing them with a supportive online community," Mr Chapman said.
"All eGrow meetings are available at no cost, however a smart phone or webcam and internet connection is needed to attend the online meeting."
Lifeline encourages any person who is experiencing heightened anxiety, emotional distress or needs a confidential talk with someone to contact 13 11 14 anytime or text 0477 131 114 from 6pm to midnight.
To engage with eGrow, visit grow.org.au/egrow or call 9528 2977.
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