WHEN times are tough people tend to isolate themselves. That's according to Stanthorpe psychologist Elizabeth Searle.

Between her countless back-to-back appointments, Mrs Searle found some time to talk to the Border Post about how the drought is impacting mental health within the region.

For her, she has a seven week-long wait list and she suspects other private psychologists in the region have just as long wait times.

One of the most common factors she's seen from people, who are struggling with drought, is withdrawal.

"There will be some people who will talk a lot but quite a few who won't,” she said.

"People worry about failing, so they don't talk about that sort of stuff.”

She said the uncertainty of the coming seasons was one of the biggest triggers for anxiety.

"There's a lot of fear around because the horticulture industry does not know how to plan for next season or the season after that.

"There will be some people who will have some idea and they'll be able to manage and there will be some who won't,” she said.

"That means a lot of uncertainty, which certainly over-thinking is something that we can get ourselves into and catastrophising.”

She said although farmers were one of the more directly affected groups of people, the droughts impact could be seen through the whole community.

"In town we're affected by the water restrictions, which are pretty tight and there's people who's trees that are dying

"You don't have to look far to see old trees suffering, the sight of those affect people in town.”

Even with the long waiting lists for psychologists Mrs Searle said there were things people can do while waiting.

Her suggestions include getting in touch with Lifeline (13 11 14), Mensline (1300 78 99 78) or visiting au.reachout.com.

She said for anyone who is worried for friends and loved ones the best way to help was to reach out, whether it's inviting them around for dinner or helping out with chores.

But her number one advice for anyone who is struggling with their mental health: "don't try to do it alone.”

"When we try to do things all by ourselves, which men are more prone to do, our thinking can get a little bit out of whack.”

Anyone in need of help should contact their GP.

Mrs Searle's Advice

• Avoid using stimulants: Caffeine, alcohol and tobacco all increase symptoms of anxiety which lead to disturbed sleep.
• Stick to your regular routine: Try to make life as normal as possible
• Look after your physical health: Eat nutritious food, keep moving, aim for six hours sleep every night.
• Reach out to someone: Whether it's a doctor or a friend, talk to someone about what's going on.