Depression Support Network Albany sees surge in calls for help due to COVID-19 and cost of living pressures

Depression Support Network Albany has seen a surge in the number of calls for help as the cost of living soars and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the local community. The grassroots organisation — based out of a community centre in Spencer Park and funded by its newly relocated op shop on Cockburn Road — supports people living with depression and other mental illnesses. Founder and manager Jo Brown said there had been an increase in the number of calls for help since the pandemic began. “Since COVID-19 started we have had a lot more people ringing who are stressed, who are not coping or who are afraid to go out anywhere because of catching COVID-19,” she said. When the threat of the virus locked down most of the State, Ms Brown said she got creative by launching online support groups and hosting Zoom meetings. “When we were locked down, everyone got onto Zoom and we all caught up online while talking or doing crafts,” she said. “A couple days after one of the lockdowns I set up a depression support group on Facebook and within two days I had 99 people from around Albany join. “We’ve since set up private Facebook groups for people living with depression, for parent support, for support after losing someone to suicide and a women survivors group.” Many Australians are feeling the pinch to make ends meet with the cost of everyday essentials such as groceries, petrol prices and house mortgages increasing, which Ms Brown said was another stress factor for people who were already struggling. “The cost of living is yet another straw on the camel’s back,” she said. “Cost of living is a huge thing because when people can’t afford items, that can lead to depression itself. “Often there is a lot of things like health concerns with COVID-19, worrying about family, worrying about the expense of things and they all pile on top of people. “Sometimes it just takes talking to someone to help sort it out and try tackle these individual things.” Depression Support Network Albany’s op shop moved to Cockburn Road in May to help make the shop more accessible and spacious for both the volunteers and customers. The proceeds from the op shop help fund the DPNA’s workshops, activities and free meals. For more information about DSNA, call Ms Brown on 0428 289 578. If you or someone you know is struggling, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.