Mental health of people during Victoria lockdown concerns top doctor

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd said authorities are concerned about the mental health of Victorians in lockdown.

He told Today many people were feeling frustrated after the state reintroduced restrictions in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases.

"A lot of people are feeling very despondent about what's happening. We're very concerned about the mental health and wellbeing of people are in isolation and lockdown," Professor Kidd said.

READ MORE: What to do if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 in Australia

He urged affected people to seek counselling from organisations such as Lifeline or Beyond Blue.

He also said people in lockdown should not neglect existing health problems.

"We're also very concerned about people staying at home, doing the right thing, but neglecting other aspects of their own healthcare," Professor Kidd said.

"So please, if you do have other health problems, make sure you're getting those attended to, Telehealth, of course, is still available with your GP and other healthcare providers."

You can get up-to-date information from the Federal Government's Coronavirus Australia app, available on the App Store, Google Play and the Government's WhatsApp channel.

Beyond Blue's Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service is a 24/7 service free of charge to all Australians.

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