3 years ago
DEVASTATING IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF AUSTRALIANS
CHRIS BOWEN MP
New modelling conducted by Sydney University’s Brain and Mind Centre shows the devastating potential impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of Australians.
The modelling forecasts a 25 per cent rise in suicide due to the pandemic, with a warning that rates could rise by as much as 50 per cent if unemployment spikes.
Our young people are being hit particularly hard, with the modelling expecting youth suicides to make up almost half of the potential 4,500 annual suicides.
We know the impacts of the current crisis, including unemployment, social isolation and physical illness, are having significant flow on effects on the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.
Young Australians are bearing the brunt, with the latest figures showing young people are losing jobs at more than double the overall rate. Overwhelming unemployment, compounded by loneliness and missing significant life events, is taking its toll on our young population.
Our response to COVID-19 must recognise we are not only facing a physical health and economic crisis, but a mental health crisis as well.
We all have a role to play in supporting Australians through this period. Even small acts like calling to check in on family and friends are more important than ever.
The Government also has a vital role to play in ensuring mental health services are affordable and accessible, and that mental health is considered in every single measure they announce during and after the current crisis.
Labor stands ready to work with the Government to look after every Australians mental health.
*For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978*
The modelling forecasts a 25 per cent rise in suicide due to the pandemic, with a warning that rates could rise by as much as 50 per cent if unemployment spikes.
Our young people are being hit particularly hard, with the modelling expecting youth suicides to make up almost half of the potential 4,500 annual suicides.
We know the impacts of the current crisis, including unemployment, social isolation and physical illness, are having significant flow on effects on the mental health and wellbeing of Australians.
Young Australians are bearing the brunt, with the latest figures showing young people are losing jobs at more than double the overall rate. Overwhelming unemployment, compounded by loneliness and missing significant life events, is taking its toll on our young population.
Our response to COVID-19 must recognise we are not only facing a physical health and economic crisis, but a mental health crisis as well.
We all have a role to play in supporting Australians through this period. Even small acts like calling to check in on family and friends are more important than ever.
The Government also has a vital role to play in ensuring mental health services are affordable and accessible, and that mental health is considered in every single measure they announce during and after the current crisis.
Labor stands ready to work with the Government to look after every Australians mental health.
*For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978*