Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
Jane Howlett,Minister for Small Business
Tasmanians have demonstrated incredible resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is important for people to take the time to look after their wellbeing, including in the workplace.
Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Jeremy Rockliff said it is understandable, and could be quite common, for some people to be worried, concerned or uncertain as we move through the pandemic and consider what living with COVID-19 might look like.
“COVID-19 will continue to present challenges we have never had to deal with before, for some time yet,” Minister Rockliff said.
“The Mental Health Council of Tasmania, strongly supported by the Tasmanian Government, has developed Small Business Toolkits in recognition of the financial and mental impact of COVID-19 on small businesses and their employees.
“These kits are an important resource to help Tasmanian small businesses create mentally healthy workplaces for owners, managers and employees, and include information on how we can each take some preventative steps in our day-to-day lives to look after our own mental wellbeing, and that of those around us.”
Minister for Small Business Jane Howlett said small business owners and employees have been some of the most directly impacted by the pandemic and trading restrictions.
“The restrictions imposed to protect the health and safety of Tasmanians has forced many small businesses to change and adapt to a new environment, placing additional stress and pressure on small businesses,” Minister Howlett said.
“Funding of $1 million has been allocated as part of a broader Mental Health Support Program contained within the Tasmanian Liberal Government’s $20 million COVID-19 Small Business Sustainability and Recovery Assistance package.”
The Small Business Toolkits are available to order for free at .
Lifeline Tasmania is also delivering free mental health training and counselling support to assist small businesses, and more information can be found by visiting their website at .
If you feel that you or someone you know are not coping, then it is important to talk to a health professional. You can access a range of telephone and online based supports through:
* Lifeline Australia
* Beyond Blue
* Rural Alive and Well
* Kids Helpline
For more immediate support for people experiencing significant mental health problems, our Mental Health Services Helpline is available 24/7 on 1800 332 388, and in an emergency, call 000.
