COVID-19 is affecting us all in different ways and while we take steps to protect our physical health, it’s also important to take care of your mental health and sense of wellbeing.
There are many things we can do at home to help with stress, anxiety and feeling overwhelmed.
The Department of Health and Human Services website contains a wide range of resources to help you stay calm and healthy during COVID-19. This includes links to videos, help lines and other available support.
In terms of your physical health, the most important thing you can do is maintain basic hygiene, particularly frequently washing your hands with soap or using hand sanitiser. For your mental wellbeing, there are a number of things you can do:
- Maintain a healthy diet, exercise and sleep regime.
- Talk to loved ones about worries and concerns.
- Engage in hobbies and enjoyable activities.
- Be prepared – ensure you have enough food, supplies and medication on hand. Ask for help collecting these items if required.
- Avoid or reduce your use of alcohol and tobacco.
- You may feel stressed listening to the news, so make sure you receive information through trusted and credible sources, rather than social media. Make sure one of those sources is specific to our state. This will help you feel more in control.
Beyond Blue’s Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service
Beyond Blue’s special Coronavirus website is regularly updated with information, advice and strategies to help you manage your wellbeing and mental health during this time.
There’s also a special telephone support line with trained counsellors who can offer support 24/7. Call 1800 512 348.
Additional Medicare sessions for psychological support
The Australian Government has announced it will provide 10 additional Medicare subsidised psychological therapy sessions for people subjected to further restrictions in areas impacted by the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes Bayside residents.
This will allow people who have used their 10 sessions to continue to receive mental health care from their psychologist, psychiatrist, GP or other eligible allied health worker.
To find out about the additional sessions, talk to your mental health professional.
We can help
Council can also assist Bayside residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes vulnerable or older members of the community, if you are self-isolating or need assistance with food and other necessary supplies, social contact or other support.
Please contact us on 9599 4444 to speak with a friendly member of our COVID-19 Support Team.
Stay safe Bayside.
