Mental health organisation Beyond Blue says that its support service, funded entirely by donations, is attracting an increasing number of calls and emails about coronavirus.
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Beyond Blue's lead clinical advisor Dr Grant Blashki says that people should reach out for support and not struggle in silence.
"The scale and speed of the changes to people's job security is understandably having an impact on people's stress levels," Dr Blashki said.
Beyond Blue received $10 million from the Federal Government this week as part of a $1.1 billion investment in telehealth, mental health and family support services.
It's new mental health support service will offer free information, counselling and referrals online and by phone.
Calls and emails to Beyond Blue's existing 24/7 support service were up by 30 per cent in the past week.
One in three of those contacts were from people directly impacted by coronavirus.
Dr Blashki outlined things people can do to maintain their mental wellbeing in light of physical distancing and self-isolation.
These include connecting with people through social media and video calls and maintaining regular sleeping and eating patterns.
"It is important people stick to the facts," Dr Blashki said.
"Misinformation can fuel feelings of anxiety, so it is important to find good quality information about a situation that's changing over time."
Leading online youth mental health service ReachOut, for people aged 14 to 25 is well placed to deliver online support, according to its chief executive Ashley de Silva.
"Everything we do is digital, which means we can continue to offer the same level of support in safe online spaces, Mr de Silva said.
ReachOut offers digital support in the form of self-help information, peer support forums and apps.
"Young Australians are not immune to the coronavirus crisis, Mr de Silva said.
"Many are facing a number of uncertainties including increased stress and financial pressure at work and home, the closure of schools and universities and feelings of isolation from their social groups."
Young people living in regional and rural communities can experience challenges when accessing mental health support, he said.
"We really want to encourage that group of young people to try online and phone support and tap into the power of their local community by staying connected to friends and family," he said.
"Even if that means catching up online instead of face-to-face."
Beyond Blue's mental health professionals are available by phone 24/7 on 1300 224 637 or via beyondblue.org.au/get-support for online chat between 3pm-12am or email responses within 24 hours.
For more information about Reach Out's services, visit reachout.com
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