Mental Illness is very common. In fact, 1 in 5 Australians aged 16-85 will experience mental illness at some point in their life. And, it’s Mental Health Week. So, let’s talk about it.
Every day at least 6 Australians take their life and a further 30 people will attempt every day. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 25-44. So how can we help someone/ourselves?
Start a conversation. Listen to those who are asking for help. If you believe within yourself that this person is not doing okay, contact their family or call emergency services. Sometimes taking that step for them is essential in their road to recovery.
How do you speak up when you’re suffering? It definitely is not the easiest to admit you are not doing okay and it’s even harder to seek help. There are so many different ways you can access help these days, with apps like Talkspace Online Therapy, chat bot Replika, Headspace: Meditation & Mindfulness Made Simple and so many more on the market.
Do what you need to help yourself: talk to your doctor, your friend, your parents, anyone you trust. Keep asking for help until you find it.
The Blackdog Institute has set up a page full of resources and information for those in need. It’s time to start taking care of each other and ourselves!
It Ain’t Weak To Speak.
Writer’s Note
If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental illness, please do not be afraid to speak up. Please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or speak to someone you trust. If you’re not from Australia, please click this link to find the right place for you http://ibpf.org/resource/list-international-suicide-hotlines it ain’t weak to speak.
If you would like to learn more about mental illness, please check out:
https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
https://www.headspace.org.au/
