The COVID-19 pandemic is overwhelming and unprecedented. Many people are struggling to cope with the increased stress, loneliness and economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic, with the situation especially difficult for people who already experience anxiety or depression.

It’s OK not to be OK. If you are doing it tough, you can ask for help. The New South Wales Mental Health Line 1800 011 511 operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and other services include Lifeline 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 and the Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800. A list of mental health services and supports is at HERE. You can also talk to your general practitioner.

In Parliament I spoke about the mental health challenges many are facing and the work we all need to do. Reaching out to each other is vital and it has been inspiring to see local community groups offer to help vulnerable people with day-to-day issues and set up COVID-Safe get-togethers, supporting local community and businesses.

State and federal governments have increased mental health and suicide prevention funding and this will strengthen the system, but we need a long term plan to shape available support in response to the changing environment. I called for expanded rebates for sessions with psychologists for people on a mental health care plan and full Medicare coverage for mental health support.

I will keep monitoring the community and will listen to mental health providers, consumers and advocates so that we can make sure the mental health system addresses the pandemic and the significant changes we face in our society and economy. My speech: HERE.  

I’ve also submitted questions to the minister about expanding services to meet community need due to the pandemic HERE and support to take up breakthrough therapies, significantly better treatments for serious conditions: HERE