#GettingThroughThisTogether
The #GettingThroughThisTogether campaign is aimed at providing refreshed and relevant evidence-based advice and links to practical mental health, social and financial support for those impacted by Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The campaign builds on the success and message of the first campaign #InThisTogether, especially as Australia approaches six months of living through COVID-19.
With the reality of COVID-19 and its uncertainty setting in, it is important to provide individuals, families and communities with links to services, resources and support to manage impacts on mental health and wellbeing.
#GettingThroughThisTogether calls on community members to support the mental health and wellbeing of others and introduce protective factors to minimise the impact of the pandemic.
Mental health and wellbeing tips for #GettingThroughThisTogether:
There is no place for domestic or family violence
If you are self-isolating or required to isolate, but are in immediate danger, call 000, seek support and find somewhere safe. Call 1800Respect for confidential support and advice.
Source: Institute of Criminology, DSS Help is Here
Caring for yourself helps you care for others
If you’re a parent or carer you need to remember to look after your own wellbeing first, including sleeping and eating well, finding time to do something you enjoy, or connecting with friends and family.
Source: ABS Impacts of COVID-19 June Household Survey, Lancet
Financial stress is real stress - seek free support
There are lots of organisations that offer free counselling to help you deal with financial stress and hardship. If you are feeling worried and overwhelmed call the Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service 1800 512 248 or if you want to speak with a financial counsellor call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.
Source: Beyond Blue, Head to Health
Make a routine that works for you
There are things you can do to gain back control, including connecting with friends and family, disconnecting from the news and too much information, planning a routine and find time to unwind, exercising and sleeping well, and being compassionate and remembering we’re all going to get through this together.
Source: Beyond Blue, Beyond Blue News, Black Dog Institute, SANE, Reach Out, Lifeline, headspace
Your support can make a difference
It’s important to check in on others, even if you think they are OK. Some people who live alone may not have close friends or family nearby. Ask if they’re OK and let them know you’re there to help.
Source: Reach Out, SANE, Beyond Blue, Beyond Blue News
Choose me time over screen time
Try to limit or schedule your news and social media intake to a couple of times a day, as it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the volume of news confronting us. When looking for a news update, make sure it’s coming from a reputable source.
Source: headspace, Lifeline, Reach Out, Reach Out Parents, Beyond Blue, Beyond Blue News, R U OK?, Black Dog Institute, SANE
Play your part
We can all make a difference to our own lives and those of others, and encourage people to build on the skills and confidence to navigate the conversation if someone says they’re not OK. We can help our healthcare and essential workers by following the most up to date health advice and supporting each other in these unusual times.
Source: Lifeline, Reach Out Parents, Beyond Blue, Beyond Blue News, Black Dog Institute
Help is available if you reach out
Our mental health is just as important as our physical health and there are a range of services are available that cater to our different needs, whether that’s a helpline, webchat, peer support forum, community health centre or seeing your GP.
Source: The Canberra Times, Healthdirect, Australian Government Department of Health, Reach Out, SANE, Beyond Blue, Black Dog Institute, Lifeline, R U OK?
Make a break a regular thing
Taking time each day to do something that allows your mind to relax is good for your mental health. Don’t underestimate the power of a little activity to get a spring in your step, and some clarity for your mind. A little can make a huge difference to your mental health and wellbeing.
Source: Black Dog Institute, Beyond Blue, Beyond Blue News, SANE, Reach Out, Lifeline
Tools and resources to support the #GettingThroughThisTogether campaign
#GettingThroughThisTogether for communities
The Life in Mind team at Everymind has worked with the suicide prevention and mental health sectors, and in collaboration with the National Mental Health Commission to provide a comprehensive list of resources to support those affected.
#GettingThroughThisTogether with self-care
The 'A Guide to Self-care' has been developed by Life in Mind and the National Communications Charter Champions.
#GettingThroughThisTogether for business owners
Ahead for Business has compiled a list of resources available for small businesses and their owners who wish to seek business support or mental health support due to the impact of an adverse event.
#GettingThroughThisTogether with financial support for business owners
Ahead for Business provides links to a range of financial support packages, grants and measures for small businesses impacted by COVID-19.
Life in Mind is an initiative of Everymind, for all media enquires please contact:
Jessica Weiland, Senior Communications Officer
Jessica.Weiland@health.nsw.gov.au
Life in Mind Project Team: lifeinmind@health.nsw.gov.au