HELP COMBATTING MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES BROUGHT ON BY COVID-19

Report from our mates at RT Health, the Health Insurer for Road Transport

Working in the transport industry can place workers in stressful situations. Especially when they are driving long distances, hauling big loads, or having to work in a dangerous environment. Long-haul drivers already face chronic isolation in their jobs, and among the Covid-19 pandemic’s multitude of repercussions is a significant negative effect on many people’s mental health.

The Black Dog Institute writes that the most common consequences of a pandemic or disease outbreak include anxiety and panic, depression, anger, confusion and uncertainty, as well as financial stress.

With the effects of the Coronavirus lasting longer than most people could have anticipated, these things have only been amplified. The newer Delta strain of the virus affecting large parts of Australia continues to make this a confronting time. Not least of which because of the not knowing when, and if, things will return to ‘normal’.

This time last year it seemed almost unthinkable that Australia would still be having random outbreaks of Covid-19 and need to face stricter lockdowns and return to maskwearing in different parts of the country. But unfortunately, that is the situation.

There is nothing wrong with seeking professional help during such a time, or indeed at any time. The fact that people can now receive psychological treatment via telehealth services, via telephone and the internet, has been a godsend for many. With the added advantages of no time wasted travelling to and from appointments, and total privacy for patients, who don’t need to sit in a communal waiting room.

Just to talk about ‘stuff’ with an understanding person, whether they be friend or therapist, can be a great help. Isolation from people to talk to and just blow off steam with has become a common problem during Covid-19. Transport workers are already at risk of depression and anxiety brought about by isolation and loneliness.

Most employers have an Employee Assistance Program, whereby staff can obtain completely confidential and private advice from qualified therapists and counsellors. There is no need to tell your employer you are receiving this help, you just need the contact details, all sessions are completely private and confidential.

If you have issues with alcohol or drugs and feel you would benefit from meeting others who are recovering from similar problems, there are great not-for-profit groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous to turn to for support.

If you are looking to join or change your health fund, rt health has been looking after transport workers for more than 130 years. Find more info at www.rthealthfund.com.au, call us on 1300 886 123 or email help@rthealthfund.com.au to find out about health cover to suit your needs.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Emergency on 000

You can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or website, www.lifeline.org.au/ Black Dog Institute clinic: 02 9382 2991, website: www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/ DISCLAIMER

This wellbeing message is brought to you by the health and wellbeing team at rt health – the health fund for transport and energy people. The health information provided here is intended to be informative only and should be carefully evaluated for its source, accuracy, completeness and relevance for your purposes. It is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. Always obtain appropriate professional advice relevant to your particular circumstances.