Many thanks Rosemary and good afternoon, Rotarians & guests
In reading the qualifications and background of our guest speaker today, I was prompted to reflect on the critical services provided by the psychology profession as a whole and the critical shortage of trained psychologists since the “pandemic” struck our shores.
It is hard to believe it is 4 years almost to the day, that Covid 19 was detected in Melbourne and the disastrous impact the pandemic and at times, misguided government regulations and lockdowns had, and continue to have on society and many of our lives.
Each of us, our families, loved ones (young & old alike), businesses and institutions including Rotary have been severely impacted.
Hopefully governments and regulators continue to evaluate the ongoing mental health and well being of our people and provide the necessary funding and assistance to the caring organisations and health & medical professionals such as psychologists supporting our community.
Anxiety, depression, stress, eating disorders, alcohol & drug abuse can impact people’s lives for a very long time, and they will require ongoing professional support.
It is frightening to see the ongoing youth crime in our society, and one wonders just how much the Covid lockdowns, inability to go to school for so long and marriage breakdowns has been a catalyst in this regard.
Peter Dakin
Thank you to Peter Dakin for providing this reflection on 7 February 2024.
