We realize this is a difficult and uncertain time for all of us. If you are experiencing heightened concern due a coronavirus diagnosis, or increased stress or anxiety due to employment changes, business closure, financial difficulties, family pressures or other challenges, we urge you to speak to reach out to a dedicated mental health service such as those listed below:

We also encourage you to visit the Government’s digital portal, Head to Health which contains authoritative information and guidance on how to maintain good mental health during the coronavirus pandemic and in self-isolation, how to support children and loved ones, and how to access further mental health services and care.

Support for our members

Optometry NSW/ACT publishes the ‘Optometry Talks’ podcast series, which includes two episodes related to mental health and a news story published 2nd April on the topic, available to all Optometry Australia members:

  • Series 2, Episode 1: Supporting mental health in me and my patients, and
  • Series 2, Episode 2: Balancing family and career without losing your mind

On 22 April 2020, Optometry Australia will host live Mental health first aid webcast, where Teresa Coffey, Director of Workplace Interventions and Mental Health Specialist will discuss the importance of mental health first aid as a health practitioner, outlining key indicators and symptoms that optometrists should be looking for in patients. Teresa will also cover responsibilities and obligations of health care providers in dealing with patients with mental health disorders. Register here.

Finally, we realise this is a difficult and uncertain time for all of us. Optometry Australia’s optometry advisor helpdesk offers our members dedicated experienced optometrists ready to provide confidential support. Please ensure you have your member number ready when you call.

Optometry Australia’s advisor helpdesk
Email: national@optometry.org.au
Phone: (03) 9668 8500
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm AEST

Mental health first aid webcast

Mental health first aid webcastMental health first aid webcast

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Acknowledgement of Country

In the spirit of reconciliation Optometry Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.