Public mental health during crises

Large increases in mental health problems including depression and anxiety symptoms, and psychological stress, have been highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telephone support lines have seen unprecedented demands and emergency department presentations have increased for mental health problems. Governments and community mental health organisations promoted actions that individuals can take to support their mental health such as staying active and socially connected, and discouraged potentially harmful actions such as consuming alcohol or illicit drugs. We know that people in distress during the COVID-19 pandemic made several positive changes to manage their mental health, and were more likely to seek help. Additionally, people in distress had higher levels of delaying or cancelling healthcare appointments, and avoiding seeking medical treatment in general. The sucessful candidate will examine changes in actions taken to manage mental health over time and engagements with health services. There will also be the opportunity to elucidate any differences during periods of lockdown or in areas with COVID-19 outbreaks. Outcomes from this project will assist health practitioners and policymakers deliver targetted advice, supports and services to individuals in most need of help. The student will be part of a team of researchers working on similar projects in a very collegiate environment and a multidisciplinary team. Findings from this project will build upon a strong program of research addressing work-related issues during the COVID-19 pandemic.