Life in COVID-19
The pandemic has brought change for us all, and it’s clear that it has also affected Australia’s mental health. To look after yourself during the pandemic, we have gathered some helpful resources.
Experiencing some of these symptoms? Read about why you might be feeling this way and how to find support:
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COVID19 – calming and coping
Across Australia people are feeling anxious - which is a completely normal reaction to the uncertainty we are facing around the impacts of COVID-19. Importantly, as long as this anxiety doesn't become overwhelming, it can be channelled into positive actions to help us cope and maintain our wellbeing. -
COVID19 – adjusting and adapting
COVID-19 has changed our lives in ways we could never have imagined at the start of this year. Adapting to new environments, however, is nothing new for military personnel and families. -
Talking to children about COVID-19
It's natural to try and protect children from any stress or anxiety they may experience due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this doesn’t mean we should avoid talking to them about how they may be feeling at this time. -
Self-help resourcesHead to health COVID-19 supportHead to Health is committed to providing Australians with trusted information and digital supports to help support everyone's mental health and wellbeing during this pandemic.
See: Head to health
Stay informed with reliable and up-to-date information:
- Find out what you can and can’t do in your state or territory – Restriction Checker
- Advice and support for Defence Families including posting information, from Defence Member and Family Support (DFMS), formerly Defence Community Organisation (DCO)
- Find out when and where you can receive a COVID-19 vaccine with the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility checker
- Coronavirus Health Information Line, available 24/7 on 1800 020 080
- Australian Government Department of Health's website at health.gov.au
Current information by state:
Get Support
Open Arms has a range of specialised services to provide the support and care you need.
If you feel like you're struggling, it can help to talk to someone. Call us anytime - 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To speak to someone anonymously, call Safe Zone Support.
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Self-help tools
These tools provide practical information and exercises for those affected by mental health or trauma to help improve wellbeing. -
Treatment programs and workshops
Open Arms offers group treatment programs and educational workshops, relationship retreats, and suicide prevention workshops. -
Crisis accommodation
The Open Arms crisis accommodation program aims to provide ‘time-out’ accommodation for veterans and their immediate families, as part of a clinical intervention.