Long COVID and mental health

The prolonged and uncertain nature of long COVID can be challenging to your mental health.

If you are experiencing long COVID, here are some ways to get the information and support to help you cope.

See a GP (doctor) who feels right for you

Throughout your recovery, it's important to feel understood and supported. And to be confident in the advice you’re given on how to manage your symptoms.

So it will help to be in contact with a GP who takes your symptoms seriously.

If you don’t have a regular GP or feel like you haven't had the support you need from a GP, it's worth finding someone who feels like a good fit.

Ask family or friends for recommendations.
Find a GP near you with healthdirect's National Health Services Directory.
If you can’t see them in person, request a telehealth consultation by phone or on a video call. Learn more about telehealth.

Learn how to navigate the unknowns

It’s understandable if you’re feeling worried or anxious about the uncertainties of long COVID. There are things you can do to ease these feelings and create a sense of stability.

Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling with no judgement.
Focus on what you can control. This could include following the advice your GP gives you, to doing things in your day that feel manageable.

Learn more about these and other ways to cope with uncertainty.

Get support for fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most reported symptoms of long COVID.

You may often feel tired or weaker than usual. You might lack energy shortly after you start an activity.

This can have a big impact on your day-to-day life.

Here are ways to help you cope.

Try the 'stop, rest, pace' approach to manage your energy.
For expert advice on managing fatigue, connect with Emerge Australia's free Patient Support and Information Service.

If your fatigue impacts your income

Fatigue may have impacted your ability to work. If this has affected your income and you’re feeling financial stress, contact the National Debt Helpline or visit moneysmart.gov.au. They offer free financial counselling and other tools to help you manage your money.

Learn about how money and your mental health are closely linked.

Connect with people who relate to your experience

Connecting with people who have gone through similar experiences can bring great comfort.

Join the Long COVID Support community to connect with others experiencing long COVID.
Chat online with people who understand what it’s like to live with fatigue and/or long COVID in the Emerge Australia Community Forum.
Visit the supportive community in the Beyond Blue Forums.

Manage your information intake

News. Social media. Conversation.

Consuming large amounts of information about long COVID from many sources can be overwhelming.

It’s important to find a balance between being informed and protecting your mental health.

Learn ways to manage what and how much information you consume.

Get clarity on what is known about long COVID

Getting information about long COVID from credible sources can help give you clarity.

You can find evidence-based information about long COVID here:

Reach out for support

If you’re struggling to manage your feelings about long COVID or have even the slightest concern, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

Find ways you can get free mental health support.