COVID-19: A Mental Health Crisis

This year is definitely not turning out to be the year that any of us were expecting. First came the bushfires, and now the coronavirus is keeping us indoors. But even in this strange new world there are reasons to be hopeful. There are acts of kindness displayed and families able to spend more time with one another. During this time however, an integral issue arises and that is how we are doing mentally. Going outdoors and socialising has always been a competent coping mechanism to avoid feelings of loneliness and overthinking.

We spoke to Voice of Health founders, Luke Karabatsos and James Hatchman, about how COVID-19 is linked to mental health and what we can do to control ourselves in this unusual period of history.

What are some of the main findings that you both have observed when it comes to COVID-19 impact and mental health? What is the majority struggling with mentally?

Luke: We’ve seen everyone’s stable routine collapse due to isolation. Our normal working hours have become blurred and as a result shifted into our personal, relationship or family time. There has been a positive increase in people exercising, however we feel this might not be due to their passion for fitness, but rather that people feel obligated to exercise or are using fitness as a means of passing the time or to feel more productive.

James: Certainly we are seeing an increase in people feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, lonely and scared (amongst other feelings of course). If we control this trend, people’s mental health and wellbeing will be changed forever.

What is some advice for those who have never tried talking about their mental health issues and ways they can overcome this insecurity?

Luke: From what I’ve learnt working, living and breathing in the mental health space, you can’t force or convince someone to talk about the challenges they are experiencing or even hint that something might be wrong.

When I was at my lowest point living with crippling anxiety and constant panic attacks, I knew something wasn’t right, that I was changing, but I didn’t want to admit it to myself, my family, my friends or work. I was ashamed, embarrassed, scared and had too much pride in myself. I set GP appointments (which I cancelled), psych appointments (which I cancelled) and even thought that I could get on antidepressants without going through the cognitive therapy I needed. I did everything I could to avoid seeking support because I was letting these emotions control my life.

Five years down the road and boy has there been some growing and understanding. Has my anxiety gone? No. But my perspective and awareness about myself, my anxiety and thoughts have changed significantly.

Does my anxiety control my life still? No. I've developed a relationship with it, understanding what it likes and doesn't like, its triggers and what I can do when I begin to feel it developing.

So why have I told you about all of this? Because I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I want you all to know that it does get easier and the pain you might be feeling can be managed.

If you are noticing changes in your thought patterns and or behaviours, I challenge you to reach out to someone close to you, write your thoughts into a journal and try meditation everyday for three weeks. Try to understand what triggers you, what makes you feel good and believe that you will continue to grow and find a positive even in the darkest moments.

What are some of the everyday actions people can take to consume positive thoughts during times of crisis?

James: We have around 60,000 thoughts per day and 80 percent of them are negative and 95 percent of them are repetitive. We believe that there are a lot of people out there manifesting a significant amount of negativity in their lives and letting it control their behaviour, relationships and purpose.

But how do you consume positive thoughts during COVID-19? The first step you can take is to generate micro moments of pleasure, for example your morning coffee, banter with work colleagues, a warm shower and cooking those delicious meals. Sit and pause in these moments.

Another great way is to give back to your community - donate, provide services for free for people in need or buy a coffee for a stranger. These impactful moments actually have a lasting positive effect on your mind and body.

In your opinion, do you believe people are aware of the grieving period during these unprecedented times? What are some ways people can recognise this?

Luke and James: In short- no. We feel people struggle to identify grief and loss with the passing of a loved one under normal circumstances, let alone during our current situation.

One key question we asked ourselves was ‘Is there an overarching trend that we are all experiencing?’. What we found was that in a way we are in fact all grieving as we have all experienced some form of loss and are attempting to cope in whatever ways we know.

We feel the biggest take away for us was understanding that it was in fact grief, which helped us gain a grasp on the emotions we were experiencing and to understand that we were in fact not alone.

Part of the anxiety stems from feeling you don’t have control on your current situation. What are some of the ways that people can adapt to this feeling?

Luke: Well before lockdown people were trying to control their external environments. It’s a common problem within yourself, relationships and family dynamics. There have been times when we’ve needed to sit back and identify what is actually within our control. What you come to realise is that you are only in control of your own life, actions and behaviours but nothing more.

If the lockdown has destroyed parts or all of your routine, try and set a new routine or maintain whatever aspects of your old routine you can. If you’re struggling financially, then try to become more conscious of what you are spending your money on and make the necessary adjustments. If your relationship is beginning to suffer, now is a good chance to develop better communication habits and express what you need.

James: Always bring it back to what you can control within this moment, for example your feelings, food you eat, the friends you choose, what you learn and how you exercise.

What is your advice to current health professionals, psychologists and those who are most needed during times of crisis who may feel overworked during this time?

Luke and James: Firstly, that the work they are doing and support being provided will not be forgotten. We thank you for risking your lives for the safety of us and our country. During this time it is important for healthcare professionals to, where possible, send low-medium risk individuals to alternative platforms and preventative solutions. This can then take the pressure off those who are needed to deal with the higher risk situations.

These individuals are risking their lives for us but it’s also important that they also understand their own limits and identify when they need a break to avoid physical or mental burnout. Communication and empathy has never been so important in our lives.

Young people today are faced with the constant battle of social media anxiety- whether that be feeling the need to portray themselves differently in order to impress others, or feeling insecure due to comparing their lives to others on social media. During this crisis, people are given no choice but to connect through social media, and have more time on their hands to distract themselves with the online world. How can young people keep a healthy balance of social media during COVID-19?

James: Who hasn’t found themselves comparing their life to those around them or on social media? It’s a horrible trend which only seems to be getting worse with younger generations. Checking your phone’s screen time updates can be a good starting point to acknowledge how much time you’re spending on social media. Is this alone going to solve the issue? Probably not.

Luke: Notice when you are stuck inside that social media scrolling, video watching vortex and physically stop yourself and ask ‘How long have I been doing this for? How many times today has this happened? What can I be doing instead?’. Now that’s the moment you can make a change. Alternatively, try logging out of your social media account for a while, giving your phone to someone else, investing your time into learning something new (one could be the dangers or implications of too much social media use?) or use social media to make a positive impact in your life and support others.

There is a flood of information in the media with daily updates of what is happening during the crisis from around the world. It can be hard to escape hearing about the issue. What are some of the ways people can switch off from world COVID-19?

Luke and James: We have definitely felt the effects of how the media can promote fear and anxiety within our lives. Every time you check the news you can’t avoid something COVID-19 related. We’ve turned to consuming media through audio books, podcasts, reading an actual book, puzzles, journalling and completely banning the words ‘corona’ and ‘COVID-19’ from certain conversations.

We can’t stress enough that you should always come back to what you have the ability to control. You can’t control the media, but you can control when and how you look at it.

What are some good mental health resources people can access?

James: There are so many great mental health resources out there, but it can be difficult to determine the right one for you. Sometimes the search can feel daunting but the key is to find the type of resource that best suits your needs.

Some people enjoy reading books and articles, others prefer videos and audiobooks, but a common theme is that everyone benefits from talking to others who can empathise and understand them. Your best mental health resource may be your peers and the people around you.

In the unprecedented time that we are living in, speaking face-to-face with a peer is not going to be easy so we recommend trying an online peer support resource such as Voice of Health. We give you the opportunity to speak directly to someone who can empathise with you or has similar lived experience, right from the comfort and safety of your own home. The feeling being understood and listened to is extremely beneficial to self-managing your mental well-being.

Luke: Two quotes that have stuck by me through thick and thin are “everything happens for a reason” and “never lose hope”. These quotes have taught me to find a positive in every moment and to never give up, even when every part of me wants to quit. I do believe that everyone should find a few quotes that resonate with you and support you along the way.

At no point in anyone’s life should you feel alone.

If you or anyone you know is looking for someone to talk to or is in need of a listening ear and for whatever reason want to use any of the resources mentioned, please email us on info@voiceofhealth.com.au and you will never need to feel alone again.

Head to https://www.voiceofhealth.com.au/ for further info.

Check out https://www.facebook.com/voiceofhealthau/ follow Luke and James’ journey.

Please see below some great mental health resources:

If you are feeling very anxious or depressed for more than two weeks, it is time to get professional help. There are a range of free and low-cost online programs that you can access from home and complete anonymously (see below) or with the support of a health professional.
- MyCompass - an online self-help program for people experiencing mild-to-moderate anxiety and depression.
- Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
- BiteBack - an online positive psychology program for young Australians between 13-16 years old.
- iBobbly - a self-help app for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 15 years and above.
- Online Clinic - an anonymous assessment tool for common mental health conditions that provides you with a personalised report to discuss with your GP. You can also contact your GP about accessing bulk-billed sessions with a Clinical Psychologist via video or phone.

Copyright © 2019

Apr 15 COVID-19: A Mental Health Crisis

What are some of the main findings that you both have observed when it comes to COVID-19 impact and mental health? What is the majority struggling with mentally?

James: Certainly we are seeing an increase in people feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, lonely and scared (amongst other feelings of course). If we control this trend, people’s mental health and wellbeing will be changed forever.

What is some advice for those who have never tried talking about their mental health issues and ways they can overcome this insecurity?

Five years down the road and boy has there been some growing and understanding. Has my anxiety gone? No. But my perspective and awareness about myself, my anxiety and thoughts have changed significantly.

Does my anxiety control my life still? No. I've developed a relationship with it, understanding what it likes and doesn't like, its triggers and what I can do when I begin to feel it developing.

So why have I told you about all of this? Because I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I want you all to know that it does get easier and the pain you might be feeling can be managed.

What are some of the everyday actions people can take to consume positive thoughts during times of crisis?

But how do you consume positive thoughts during COVID-19? The first step you can take is to generate micro moments of pleasure, for example your morning coffee, banter with work colleagues, a warm shower and cooking those delicious meals. Sit and pause in these moments.

Another great way is to give back to your community - donate, provide services for free for people in need or buy a coffee for a stranger. These impactful moments actually have a lasting positive effect on your mind and body.

In your opinion, do you believe people are aware of the grieving period during these unprecedented times? What are some ways people can recognise this?

Luke and James: In short- no. We feel people struggle to identify grief and loss with the passing of a loved one under normal circumstances, let alone during our current situation.

One key question we asked ourselves was ‘Is there an overarching trend that we are all experiencing?’. What we found was that in a way we are in fact all grieving as we have all experienced some form of loss and are attempting to cope in whatever ways we know.

We feel the biggest take away for us was understanding that it was in fact grief, which helped us gain a grasp on the emotions we were experiencing and to understand that we were in fact not alone.

Part of the anxiety stems from feeling you don’t have control on your current situation. What are some of the ways that people can adapt to this feeling?

James: Always bring it back to what you can control within this moment, for example your feelings, food you eat, the friends you choose, what you learn and how you exercise.

What is your advice to current health professionals, psychologists and those who are most needed during times of crisis who may feel overworked during this time?

These individuals are risking their lives for us but it’s also important that they also understand their own limits and identify when they need a break to avoid physical or mental burnout. Communication and empathy has never been so important in our lives.

There is a flood of information in the media with daily updates of what is happening during the crisis from around the world. It can be hard to escape hearing about the issue. What are some of the ways people can switch off from world COVID-19?

We can’t stress enough that you should always come back to what you have the ability to control. You can’t control the media, but you can control when and how you look at it.

What are some good mental health resources people can access?

James: There are so many great mental health resources out there, but it can be difficult to determine the right one for you. Sometimes the search can feel daunting but the key is to find the type of resource that best suits your needs.

Some people enjoy reading books and articles, others prefer videos and audiobooks, but a common theme is that everyone benefits from talking to others who can empathise and understand them. Your best mental health resource may be your peers and the people around you.

At no point in anyone’s life should you feel alone.

WORDS: LUKE KARABATSOS, JAMES HATCHMAN, KATIE TIFFIN AND JAHIN TANVIR
PHOTOGRAPHY: SASHA FREEMIND, FABRIZIO VERRECCHIA, PAUL GILMORE ON UNSPLASH

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Copyright © 2019

Apr 15 COVID-19: A Mental Health Crisis

What are some of the main findings that you both have observed when it comes to COVID-19 impact and mental health? What is the majority struggling with mentally?

James: Certainly we are seeing an increase in people feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, lonely and scared (amongst other feelings of course). If we control this trend, people’s mental health and wellbeing will be changed forever.

What is some advice for those who have never tried talking about their mental health issues and ways they can overcome this insecurity?

Five years down the road and boy has there been some growing and understanding. Has my anxiety gone? No. But my perspective and awareness about myself, my anxiety and thoughts have changed significantly.

Does my anxiety control my life still? No. I've developed a relationship with it, understanding what it likes and doesn't like, its triggers and what I can do when I begin to feel it developing.

So why have I told you about all of this? Because I want you to know that you aren’t alone. I want you all to know that it does get easier and the pain you might be feeling can be managed.

What are some of the everyday actions people can take to consume positive thoughts during times of crisis?

But how do you consume positive thoughts during COVID-19? The first step you can take is to generate micro moments of pleasure, for example your morning coffee, banter with work colleagues, a warm shower and cooking those delicious meals. Sit and pause in these moments.

Another great way is to give back to your community - donate, provide services for free for people in need or buy a coffee for a stranger. These impactful moments actually have a lasting positive effect on your mind and body.

In your opinion, do you believe people are aware of the grieving period during these unprecedented times? What are some ways people can recognise this?

Luke and James: In short- no. We feel people struggle to identify grief and loss with the passing of a loved one under normal circumstances, let alone during our current situation.

One key question we asked ourselves was ‘Is there an overarching trend that we are all experiencing?’. What we found was that in a way we are in fact all grieving as we have all experienced some form of loss and are attempting to cope in whatever ways we know.

We feel the biggest take away for us was understanding that it was in fact grief, which helped us gain a grasp on the emotions we were experiencing and to understand that we were in fact not alone.

Part of the anxiety stems from feeling you don’t have control on your current situation. What are some of the ways that people can adapt to this feeling?

James: Always bring it back to what you can control within this moment, for example your feelings, food you eat, the friends you choose, what you learn and how you exercise.

What is your advice to current health professionals, psychologists and those who are most needed during times of crisis who may feel overworked during this time?

These individuals are risking their lives for us but it’s also important that they also understand their own limits and identify when they need a break to avoid physical or mental burnout. Communication and empathy has never been so important in our lives.

There is a flood of information in the media with daily updates of what is happening during the crisis from around the world. It can be hard to escape hearing about the issue. What are some of the ways people can switch off from world COVID-19?

We can’t stress enough that you should always come back to what you have the ability to control. You can’t control the media, but you can control when and how you look at it.

What are some good mental health resources people can access?

James: There are so many great mental health resources out there, but it can be difficult to determine the right one for you. Sometimes the search can feel daunting but the key is to find the type of resource that best suits your needs.

Some people enjoy reading books and articles, others prefer videos and audiobooks, but a common theme is that everyone benefits from talking to others who can empathise and understand them. Your best mental health resource may be your peers and the people around you.

At no point in anyone’s life should you feel alone.

WORDS: LUKE KARABATSOS, JAMES HATCHMAN, KATIE TIFFIN AND JAHIN TANVIR PHOTOGRAPHY: SASHA FREEMIND, FABRIZIO VERRECCHIA, PAUL GILMORE ON UNSPLASH

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WORDS: LUKE KARABATSOS, JAMES HATCHMAN, KATIE TIFFIN AND JAHIN TANVIR
PHOTOGRAPHY: SASHA FREEMIND, FABRIZIO VERRECCHIA, PAUL GILMORE ON UNSPLASH