Reducing distress in the community following the COVID-19 pandemic
Read our latest report that explores the link between COVID-19 and community distress, and our research-based government recommendations.
Wesley LifeForce
Wesley LifeForce provides suicide prevention services that support people most at risk, and educate and empower local communities.
Suicide Prevention Australia
Wesley LifeForce is a proud member of Suicide Prevention Australia. Suicide Prevention Australia is the national peak body for people working in suicide prevention in Australia.
The deeper effects of the COVID-19 pandemic are still being understood, but it is clear that a number of factors are causing increased distress in the community, including:
- high levels of unemployment
- financial stress
- violence at home during lockdown
- substance abuse and alcohol consumption
- social isolation
- homelessness.
This joint white paper, released by Suicide Prevention Australia and Wesley Mission, investigates the link between the pandemic and distress-causing factors, and examines current and future negative outcomes.
The paper is particularly important for individuals and organisations involved in reducing distress in the community following COVID-19, including government stakeholders, policymakers and key decision makers. It highlights the importance of well-equipped support services, inclusive of mental health and suicide prevention. The report highlights a series of recommendations for Government to help protect the wellbeing of at-risk Australians.
You can read the white paper below or download a copy by clicking on the button on the left.