With the outbreak of the third wave of COVID-19 in Australia, there is a serious concern for public health. Moreover, as most restrictions have eased, some people may not follow safety precautions, thinking they wouldn’t be infected since they have recovered from COVID or have been vaccinated. However, medical experts have indicated clearly that the new strain of the virus can cause re-infection despite being vaccinated.

So, what should you do if you get exposed? Doctors suggest that mild cases of COVID-19 do not require hospitalisation. However, you may need to enter into self-isolation or quarantine, which could become overwhelming, so here are a few things you should remember if you are self-isolating.

• Make a mental note of the important fact that you are going into isolation temporarily, and once you start feeling better, you can soon end it (isolation period- maximum 14 days from the time of exposure).
• Focus on the fact that isolation is a precautionary measure to not only help you recuperate but also protect others from contracting the virus.
• People often encounter anxiety, loneliness and panic attacks; hence it is imperative for them to stay connected with friends and family virtually. For instance, they can interact with them from time to time via email, video conferencing and social media.
• One of the most beneficial things to do during isolation is to maintain a routine; despite being monotonous or repetitive, doing something in an organised way will help immensely. For example, you should eat your meals regularly, sleep and wake up at specific times, shower and change your clothes regularly as well. Your schedule will enable you to deal with the isolation more efficiently.
• You should also attempt to get some physical activity; during self-quarantine, one might become overwhelmed with stress and negative thoughts. Hence, some simple home exercises can help avoid overthinking and manage stress.
• Exercise might not be the only way to deal with stress; one can use other coping strategies such as watching movies, doing yoga or reading a book.
• If you have any other additional health problems, you must regularly take your prescribed medications and continue with the treatment plan suggested by your doctor. You should also check if you are facing any new symptoms and consult the doctor accordingly.
• Strictly avoid any source of negativity, which includes news about distressing events and social media.
• Finally, please consult your doctor if your symptoms continue after 15 to 20 days or if you develop additional issues like breathing problems.

Mental health and well-being

Victorians of all ages who require mental and well-being support can get appropriate help from Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs. You can call 1300 375 330 (9 am – 10 pm weekdays and 9 am – 5 pm weekends) or submit an enquiry online via Partners in Wellbeing to book an in-person or telehealth appointment. Furthermore, it is important to know that you do not need any referral from a GP or health professional to get access via Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs.

You can avail of the services in different languages as well by calling TIS National on 131 450 and asking for an interpreter. After that, you can ask them to get you connected to Mental Health & Wellbeing Hubs on 1300 375 330. However, if you want to call on behalf of someone else, you would need to get their permission.

Check the table below for some hubs which are available for walk-ins:

Other mental health resources

Lifeline Australia

People who are having a difficult time coping with the disease or staying safe can get in touch with Lifeline Australia for short-term support.

Phone: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue

Beyond Blue provides service to people who are going through anxiety, stress, and depression and provides essential assistance during Covid-19.

Phone: 1800 512 348

Care in Mind

An excellent online and telephonic counselling service system for those residing, working or studying in Melbourne’s northern, central and western suburbs.

Phone: 1300 096 269 (24 hours a day, seven days a week).

Headtohelp

Victorians of all ages can get mental health and well-being support from Headtohelp, wherein trained professionals are available to advise you properly and connect you to the appropriate support and services.
Phone: 1800 595 212 (8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday)

MensLine

This is online support and information system that Australian men(in particular) can connect with to gain the necessary support.

Phone: 1300 789 978 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)

Mindspot

People who are encountering stress, worry, anxiety, bouts of low mood or depression can get in touch with Mindspot. It is a free online and telephone service that provides online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression. Moreover, it can also help you get in touch with local services.

Phone: 1800 614 434 (8 am – 8 pm on Monday – Friday; 8 am – 6 pm on Saturday)

Suicide Call Back Service

If you or your loved ones that you know of are having suicidal thoughts, please get in touch with the Suicide Call Back service which provides 24/7 support.

Phone: 1300 659 467 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)

Head to Health

Head to Health is a service available to all Victorians. You can call 1800 595 212 and ask for a mental health professional. Head to Health can help you in connecting with right organisations and resources as well as with complex mental health service requirements.

GriefLine

Losing someone due to Covid or other diseases can be tough; You can reach out to Griefline if you are having a tough time dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Phone 03 9935 7400 (Lines open from midday to 3 am, seven days a week)

Partners in Wellbeing

Anxiety, depression, and feeling down are some of the common causes that often affect people immensely. Consequently, it makes it harder for them to cope, so you can find help through Partners in Wellbeing service if you are having a hard time coping. Besides, it is a free service that provides one-on-one support to help your mental well-being and develop appropriate coping strategies.

Phone: 1300 375 330

Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria (ARCVic)

People who have anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), generalised anxiety disorder, or hoarding can get help at ARCVic. Furthermore, it provides a free service through phone or internet-based services to improve mental well-being. Also, if you are a parent and encountering anxiety, you can get help from ARCvic.

Phone: OCD & Anxiety Helpline 1300 269 438 or 03 9830 0533

Eating Disorders Victoria

Eating Disorders Victoria has launched a new well-being program to help people who have eating disorders and provide them with the required assistance during Covid-19.

SuicideLine Victoria

It is a free 24/7 online counselling service that provides professional support to people who are suffering from suicidal tendencies. You can get in touch with SuicideLine Victoria if you know anyone who is suicidal or if someone is mourning a close one who passed away by suicide.

Phone: 1300 651 251 (24 hours a day, seven days a week across Victoria)

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