More help for mental health

AS lockdown becomes our new normal once again, many Victorians will be finding it tough.

To combat this and the countries growing rates of suicide, the Federal government has expanded its mental health program to provide all Victorians with an extra ten subsidised psychology sessions.

Available under Medicare, this extra help is applicable to any Victorian resident who has previously made use of their existing sessions.

The Federal health minister Greg Hunt said with news of extended and expanded lockdowns, there will be mental health challenges for many.

“Our advice and our message to all Australians, especially to Victorians, is as difficult as this may be, this is the moment that we rise to be our best selves and we will get through this,” he said.

This latest round of funding comes in addition to the government’s earlier commitments of more than $500 million providing much needed support for Australian’s throughout the pandemic.

Lecturer in clinical psychology at Federation University, Professor Gerard Kennedy said the uncertainty produced by COVID has instilled widespread fear, anxiety and depression.

“A lot of people will feel powerless and therefore depressed, especially those who are less resourced or lost their jobs,” he said.

“Some people have been angry, defiant and even trying to deny that there’s a problem, which is an indicator of insecurity.

“Most people in general can’t cope with uncertainty and some are struggling with cabin fever and being alone, so there’s so many layers.”

Although offering ten subsidised sessions will be productive to some, and especially those already on a mental health plan, industry professionals have feared the over-the-phone telehealth approach may be inaccessible to some.

Professor Kennedy said some people suffering with mental health issues may not even have the resources to consider using these services in the first place.

“Telehealth is pretty effective, it’s kind of like having a conversation in person but it’s not quite the same,” he said.

“I think there will be a lot of people who are older, vulnerable and not even computer literate or even have a mobile phone and might not be able to access this.

“Even though the government are providing more services, there might be a lot of people who miss out because of technological accessibility, age factors and poverty factors.”

In a bid to make mental health help more accessible, the Federal government is also providing an additional $12 million to ensure Victorians can access 24/7 support through digital and telephone counselling services.

This investment aims to ensure existing helplines can meet increased demand and provides clients with ongoing access.

While these helplines can provide a first point of contact, Professor Kennedy said the best way to approach feelings of depression, anxiety or insomnia, especially right now, is to seek help.

“When people feel like they can’t manage feelings of insecurity, anxiety or depression, it’s good to ask someone else whether it’s a friend, family member or your GP for help,” he said.

“Although you access so much information online about mental health, it is always important to speak to your GP and see if you can get on a mental health plan.”

Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 or at headtohealth.gov.au.

The Beyond Blue Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service is available to all Australians via telephone 1800 512 348 or at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au.