COVID-19 second wave now upon us, says Professor Patrick McGorry
The psychiatrist says he is worried suicide could claim more lives than the virus itself without major reforms
A predicted rise in mental health problems and suicide resulting from Australia’s COVID-10 pandemic response is being described as a “vast, expanding disaster with no end in sight” by Professor Patrick McGorry.
With COVID-19 cases dwindling, the psychiatrist and former Australian of the Year says it is time to address the impact of the lockdowns and the economic downturn.
Writing in the Medical Journal of Australia, he referred to a national survey run in April which suggested mental health problems were at least twice as prevalent compared to before the pandemic.
But as the national response enters its 10th month, he said more recent scientific modelling suggests Australia is heading for a “second curve of mental ill-health and suicide”.
