The physical toll of COVID-19 dominates the headline, but most of us are more likely to suffer mentally from the pandemic. I know I’ve personally been on a bit of an emotional roller-coaster, alternating between feeling totally in control and at peace with the situation and finding myself paralysed by anxiety. In this time of uncertainty, Mike Waters’ new single “I’m Doing Fine” really resonates.
The Melbourne singer-songwriter gets honest about his own mental health struggles, including how difficult speaking up about them can be when men are taught to simply suck it up.
“It came from me telling my own story of when I was hit by a really intense bout of deep, dark depression, that I’ve never experienced before,” he explained. “I learned that the thing I needed to do to get through that was to talk to people. This song is about people who say to their friends that they are fine but on the inside they are falling apart.”
Many of us are feeling isolated right now, whether you’re under a mandated lockdown or you’re playing it safe and staying in like me. If you’re struggling, remember help is always available. I find I’m calling home more than usual and video chatting with friends, but there are also plenty of support services available if you’d rather talk to someone you don’t know. Call the following numbers for 24/7 help:
beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
Lifeline: 13 11 14
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467