THE unfolding COVID-19 situation has more locals feeling depressed and anxious, with Headspace Queanbeyan centre manager Winston Seah saying they’ve seen an 81 per cent increase in their services compared to this time last year.

“There has been a significant increase in demand for services over the last four months,” Mr Seah said.

“The demand has been for mental health support either with a psychologist or counsellor and there’s also been an increase in the uptake of life skills workshops and social groups.

“The main presenting concerns are feeling sad or depressed, feeling anxious and having problems with family or friend relationships.”

Headspace is seeing younger locals in the Queanbeyan region being most affected, with services for young people increasing by 41 per cent.

“The main age group of young people seeking help come from the 12 to 17 age range: 67 per cent,” Mr Seah said.

“My advice for young people is that it’s okay to ask for help. [You] are not alone in feeling challenged by the current situation.

“A wealth of online resources is available at [our website], including articles about mental health concerns and access to online counselling.”

Mr Seah’s comments come a couple of days after Lifeline Australia, on Monday, received 3345 calls — the highest volume of calls in the organisation’s 58-year history.

The numbers show that Australians aren’t suffering in silence through the isolation, anxiety and uncertainty of the pandemic, Lifeline Australia chairman John Brogden said.

Lifeline expects high demand for services to continue through this current period and beyond, because these kinds of events leave a long tail of trauma.

“Since the beginning of this crisis, Lifeline has been working hard to support Australian’s at risk of suicide and experiencing the mental health effects of the isolation and uncertainty of COVID-19,” Mr Brogden said.

“We want everyone to know that Lifeline is always there for them, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“If you, or someone you know are feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to connect with Lifeline in the way you feel most comfortable. Phone us to speak to a Crisis Supporter on 13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days).”