Everyone reacts differently to stress in our lives, however COVID-19 stressors have severely impacted the mental health and wellbeing of the region.
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That's why Rural Adversity Mental Health program coordinator Kate Arndell urged businesses, community groups and individuals to take advantage of free sessions on offer.
Working in the Hunter New England Local Health District, she and her team are offering the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP).
She explained that getting on top of any triggers early is one of the keys to coping with this unique and challenging time.
Looking at the statistics, three out of four people who are suffering with mental health issues will not seek help.
If we compare that with a broken leg, 100 per cent of people would seek help.
- Kate Arndell
"If we compare that with a broken leg, 100 per cent of people would seek help," Kate explained.
Since the pandemic started, four out of five people say their mental health has been worse. And overall, people are turning towards alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms, and are foregoing endorphin-releasing exercise.
"Our message would be there are lots and lots of services out there, and a lot are free and available through Telehealth.
"This is a really unusual, extreme situation, and there is no shame in reaching out for help before you get to that crisis level. Don't wait until you are in dire traits. If those bad days are outnumbering the good days, and reach out."
This is not new information, but sometimes when we are in a crisis mindset, we lose sight and the basics tend to go out the window.
- Kate Arndell
Her top tips to help your mental health in the pandemic: create a routine, stick to work hours and create a work-only space if you can, be mindful of how much alcohol you are drinking, get exercising, stay in touch socially and limit media exposure and only use reliable media sources.
"This is not new information, but sometimes when we are in a crisis mindset, we lose sight and the basics tend to go out the window."
The RAMHP has been running for over 10 years, and has 20 coordinators based throughout rural NSW.
They link communities to mental health services, and provide a range of free education and training for workplaces and communities about mental health and wellbeing.
Two sessions have currently been organised for Gunnedah at the Community College.
Thursday August 6 will be a three and half hour session on Mental health Support Skills, starting at 9.30am.
Monday August 31 will be a session on Wellbeing and You, running for an hour and a half starting at 10.30am.
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Click here for more information, or to RSVP to the Gunnedah sessions.
To book a session, email Kate at Kate.Arndell@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au or call 0405 288 081.
- Beyond Blue 1300 224636
- Lifeline 13 11 14
