Back in those carefree days of 2019, the mere idea of live entertainment not being a regular fixture in our lives would have been met with scoffs and low-key derision.
But here we are in 2021, in the midst of another lockdown, and with our local and national entertainment industries decimated.
And Lifeline Hunter Central Coast is urging entertainment industry workers not to suffer in silence if the societal impacts of COVID-19 are weighing on their mental health.
Regional manager Julie Wicks said extended lockdowns and restrictions mean people are feeling more anxious, more isolated or lonely, or struggling with consequent business and job impacts.
And the music industry is certainly not immune to those effects.
“People in the entertainment industry are certainly bearing the brunt of lockdowns and the impacts of COVID-19, ” she said.
“It is understandable to feel worried or overwhelmed; just having someone listen can make a big difference, and Lifeline is here to listen and to offer hope via 13 11 14, text, or online chat.”
Julie added that free face-to-face and video counselling services were another way that LIfeline helps local people. LIfeline offers face-to-face counselling from its centres at Islington, Belmont, Raymond Terrace and Singleton.
While face-to-face counselling has been suspended during lockdown, appointments are still being conducted via video.
“Our qualified counsellors are there for anyone struggling with personal issues. The service is free, you don’t need a referral, and we have available appointments,” Julie said.
She added everyone can help by giving people they know who may be living alone or vulnerable a call or a message.
“We can all get through this if we are kind to each other and look out for each other,” she said.
“It’s been amazing to see how supportive and generous people in the entertainment industry have been to each other and others in the community.”
Julie also revealed last Friday, a record 3,425 people reached out to Lifeline for crisis support and the organisation expects to respond to more than one million requests for support this year.
Lifeline service details
- Telephone: 13 11 14 (24 hours)
- Lifeline Text: 0477 13 11 14 (6pm – midnight)
- Chat online: www.lifeline.org.au (7pm – midnight)
- Counselling appointment bookings: 1300 152 854
For 24-hour crisis support, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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