A new mental health campaign has been launched, aimed at supporting Queenslanders under stress from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk said people should be as mindful of their mental health as they are of their physical health during the pandemic.
“People all over the world have had their lives turned upside down due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“Life as we knew it came to a standstill.
“The pandemic has placed huge pressures on families and created anxiety and stress, impacting people’s mental wellbeing, and we won’t pretend that there aren’t more challenges ahead.”
The Premier said the Department of Health had been allocated an extra $46.5 million to support Queenslanders’ mental health and wellbeing through programs across the State
Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic said the pandemic had created an environment where there was greater recognition of the importance of mental health in society including its impact on our economic recovery.
“The uncertainty and unpredictability of the pandemic, and prolonged stressors such as worries about health risks, unemployment, financial hardship and social isolation all contribute to an increased level of mental health vulnerability for Queenslanders,” Mr Frkovic said.
“It’s critically important that Queenslanders take proactive steps to maintain and support their mental health and wellbeing.”
He said everyone should make a personal commitment to strengthen their mental wellbeing as a buffer to the challenging times.
“All it takes is a few simple actions, practised every day to build up our coping mechanisms and resilience.
He emphasised however, that it was important to recognise when people were struggling and provide various opportunities to seek help.
