Victorians more concerned about mental health impacts of lockdown than virus

Victorians are more concerned about the impact of lockdown on mental health and jobs than contracting the virus.

A new YouGov poll found more than 60 per cent of people are worried about the impact of shutdowns on mental health, as well as the damage to businesses and job losses.

Sixty per cent of people are suffering from a lack of contact with family and friends.

Pam Jones, 45, from Melbourne's north-east, told 9News she is struggling to see the light at the end of the lockdown tunnel.

READ MORE: How to take care of your mental health in COVID-19 lockdown

The administration professional is worried about her daughters' wellbeing and her family in the UK, who she has not seen for two years.

"I'm trying to work from home and home school at the same time and it's incredibly, incredibly difficult," she said.

The mental repercussions of ongoing lockdowns are now of greater concern for many Victorians than the risk of catching COVID-19.

Calls to Lifeline continue to rise as Victoria's gruelling lockdown continues.

READ MORE: 'Shadow' mental health pandemic spreading among Victorian children

"These numbers are extraordinary," Lifeline Australia Chair John Brogden said.

"We've seen a 32 per cent increase in the number of calls we are receiving in Victoria compared to two years ago."

Professor Patrick McGorry from mental health group Orygen said the surge in psychological distress, particularly in children, needs urgent attention.

"Our modelling shows this mental ill health will last months and probably years. So we've got to have a solution now."

For mental health support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.