Mental Health Impacts of Coronavirus
Updated: Jul 2, 2021
YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Covid 19
It’s normal to feel stress and worry when there is a health event happening in the community that is affecting people’s wellbeing, such as coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This can affect any person in the community who is concerned about the infection, with more specific concerns arising for people being tested, people in quarantine and people who have received a diagnosis. Family and friends can also experience similar mental health impacts.
Potential mental health impacts are:
increased anxiety for self and others (this can be expressed as a fear for one’s own health, and a fear of infecting others)
psychological distress perceived stigmatization social isolation
interruption to employment or study impact on normal daily routine and functioning.
Most people will manage with the support of family and friends, but others may need some extra help to keep things on track.
Potential Mental Health Impact.
Try to minimise exposure to extensive Covid 19 content of social media.
Covid Impact
If you notice a change
If you notice a change in the way that you or others around you, are thinking or feeling - below are some practices to maintain positive mental health:
Maintain a daily routine, even if it is different to your normal daily routine.
Connect with family and friends and other supports using technology.
Look after yourself through regular exercise and healthy meals.
Do not over-indulge in alcohol or comfort foods.
Ensure you have some time out to relax and do enjoyable activities.
Try to minimise exposure to the extensive COVID-19 content on Social Media – ensure you have access to accurate and current information from reliable sources.
Below are some services for you to seek support if you need
Support
Seek support if you need it
South Australian COVID-19 telephone and online supports:
SA COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line
8am to 8pm,
7 days a week
Phone: 1800 632 753
Online chat: www.SACOVIDMentalHealth.org.au
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 www.beyondblue.org.au
Lifeline Australia 13 11 14
Regional Access Program (country areas)
24 hours a day,
7 days a week
1300 032 186