With residents within the Dubbo LGA in lockdown NSW chief psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright said it is crucial people are taking the steps to manage their mental wellbeing, while compassion for others is also being called upon.
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"It's really important for me to remind everyone this is probably the most sustained and serious stress that many of us are going to face in our lifetimes," he said.
"How this is going to impact a lot of us and how we manage it is going to be really important in minimising the wellbeing and mental health impacts of the stress.
"There are some fairly simple and straightforward things that we all need to keep front of mind on a daily basis in order to manage these stresses, keep track of how it's affecting us and the people around us and also, to access help if needed."
Dr Wright encourages individuals to have a plan to manage and monitor their stress.
"It's also helpful to assume that everyone you come into contact with is also dealing with the stress and is impacted by it and may not be responding to things around them in their usual way," he said.
"If possible, cut them a bit of slack and ask people if they're ok.
"Have a plan, create structure in your lives, monitor your diet, your sleep and your alcohol intake. Also, set goals every day.'
Mr Wright said signs things are not working include difficulties with sleep and concentration, feeling fatigued, irritable and overwhelmed or high alcohol consumption.
Mr Wright said it is also helpful to talk about the pandemic as well as the long term impact of mental health impact.
Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders said it is important for the community now more than ever to show their compassion and to support one another.
Dubbo mayor Stephen Lawrence on Friday also shared his sympathy for those within the community who have found in recent days they have tested positive to COVID-19, reiterating they done nothing wrong.
Help services you can access during lockdown include;
- Beyond Blue1800 51 23 48
- Lifeline Australia13 11 14
- Domestic Violence Line1800 65 64 63
- 1800RESPECT1800 73 77 32
- Suicide Callback Service1300 65 94 67
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