SustainHealth: Supporting Mental Health Awareness Month
October is Mental Health Awareness Month in NSW. Whether or not we have experienced mental health illness in our lives, it creates awareness and encourages people to think about their mental wellbeing. With 1 out of 5 Australians affected by mental illness, it is important to understand the impact that mental health has in our everyday lives and to seek help when needed.
The theme for the last 3 years has been “Share the Journey” and the message is simple – reach out, connect with others and build positive relationships. Isolation has a major impact on mental wellbeing and it is crucial that we tackle the stigma associated with mental illness so people do not have to suffer alone.
Here are some tips from Way Ahead, a NSW mental health association, on things you can do to help with your mental health:
• Talk to friends or family about your thoughts and emotions
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating well, getting enough rest and exercising regularly
• Relax (e.g. read, meditate or yoga)
• Seek professional assistance or advice (e.g. family doctor, counsellor psychiatrist, nurse or social worker to name a few)
• Take a moment to reflect on each day
If you need support or know someone who does, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit the following link for more avenues of help – https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/national-help-lines-and-websites
Elaine Wu
P:02 8274 4660