The NSW Mental Health Commission recognises that people are feeling worried, stressed and anxious in relation to the coronavirus (COVID-19). There are many sources of information available, which can also add to a sense of confusion on how to respond.
While information will develop to keep pace with the progress of COVID-19, we have gathered the following advice and information for you from our partners.
This is a time to support each other and keep yourself up-to-date so that you can help all your families and friends to be safe.
Mental health tips
- Beyond Blue has helpful tips on how to look after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak.
- The Australian Psychological Society has an information sheet on how to cope with coronavirus anxiety.
- The World Health Organisation has issued a statement about mental health and the coronavirus.
- RUOK? have some tips about looking out for family members or friends who are struggling.
- ReachOut has '10 ways to take care of yourself during coronavirus'.
- The Butterfly Foundation has tips and advice for people with eating disorders.
- Emerging Minds have resources about talking to children about disasters or traumatic events.
- Phoenix Australia has tips for you and your family.
- Kids Helpline is a phone counselling service for children and young people.
- Wayahead Directory has a list of mental health and community services.
- Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health for resources, information and support.
- Orygen has information for young people and families.
Health information and tips
- Make sure you access evidence-based information about coronavirus, for example the World Health Organisation, Australian Government coronavirus (COVID-19) health alert, NSW Government and NSW Health.
- For multilingual information on COVIDー19, visit the NSW Health website website or on the Multicultural Health Communication Service website.
- The Australian Medical Association has a list of telephone lines for more information on the coronavirus.
- ACON has issued a statement with advice for community members, especially LGBTIQ+ people.
- People with Disability Australia have published information on their website about the NDIS and coronavirus.
Community resources
- Resilient Community Organisations has a toolkit to help organisations measure and improve their resilience to disasters and emergencies.
- Carers NSW has regular updates on COVID-19 about relevant information and resources for carers and service providers.
- Black Dog Institute has a list of evidence-based tools and resources for you and your community.
- Carer Peer Connect runs an online drop-in, known as Carer Hangout for carers across NSW. Carer Hangout is a safe space for carers to come together and chat during this period of social isolation. Mondays from 2pm to 4pm and Fridays from 10am to 12pm.
- Relationships Australia Victoria have easy-to-read resources developed specifically to help you navigate the challenges you might be facing as a result of COVID-19.
- Grow continues to operate online, offering peer-to-peer support during these difficult times.
- SafeWork NSW have COVID-19 resources available for both employers and workers on their website.
Media guidelines
- Mindframe supports safe media reporting, portrayal and communication about suicide, mental ill-health, alcohol and other drugs.
- Emerging Minds have guidelines for media professionals reporting on disaster or community trauma events.
In an emergency
If you, a friend or family member are experiencing distress please contact one of the following numbers:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Mental Health Line 1800 011 511.
