On Monday, 10th October was World Mental Health day. This year Mental Health Australia shared the simple message of – “Look after your Mental Health”. Their tips this year were the A,B,C’s of Mental Health:
- Awareness – Mental Health and wellbeing mean different things to different people.
- Belonging – Community involvement is key. Focus on what you have in common with others and how you can help.
- Connection – Build strong support networks and look out for one another.
Mental ill health is a growing problem in Australia – one that has been made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking after your mental health and wellbeing, and knowing how to support others, has never been more important.
Good mental health is when we can cope with the stressors of our daily lives, participate in loving relationships, contribute to our community, and work towards our goals. Everyone has mental health. And we can all benefit from looking after our own mental health and the mental health of our communities.
During last weeks assembly I spoke of the growing issue of mental health with national statistics indicating 1 in 5 Australians meet the criteria for a Mental Health diagnosis. There a many things that can affect and contribute to negative mental health but there are also so many strategies for improving our mood and building resilience. Here are 10 tips from Mental Health Australia:
- Stay Active
- Eat Well
- Connect with others.
- Do something you enjoy every day.
- Limit media resources (and stick to those you trust.)
- Keep to a routine.
- Get an early night.
- Be kind to yourself.
- Maintain perspective.
- Seek Help.
Need support
Lifeline 13 11 14 - 24 hours day 7 days a week
Lifeline Text 0477 131 114 - 6pm to midnight (AEDT) 7 nights a week
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 www.beyondblue.org.au
Butterfly Foundation National Helpline 1800 334 673
Carer Support 1800 242 636 or or 1300 554 660
SANE Australia Help Centre 1800 187 263 www.sane.org
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 www.kidshelpline.com.au
MensLine Australia 1300 789 978
Nathan Beckett, Assistant Principal, Wellbeing
