LAST week’s Mental Health Week and International Mental Health Day was an opportunity for people to learn more about how to manage their own mental health and look after others, according to mental health organisations and advocates.
However StandBy Support After Suicide coordinator Tracey Wanganeen said it was equally as important for people to look after their mental health year-round.
“When people say ‘mental health’ many people automatically equate it to mental illness, but it is about overall health and well-being for everyone,” Ms Wanganeen said.
“It’s the same as physical health in that it’s essential for how people function on a daily basis.”
Ms Wanganeen said one of the simple things can do for their mental health is self-care.
“People can be a bit stumped when you tell them about self-care and what they can do,” she said.
“It does not have to be a bubble bath or candles, it can just be something you practice on a regular basis to maintain well-being.
“Something like a hobby or an interest that can bring joy.
“Self-care combined with diet, exercise and sleep is very important.”
The Junction Mental Health and Resource Centre volunteers Sam Wing and Colleen Cruise said the facility, located at the Country Health Connect meeting rooms in Millicent, is a place where adults can spend time in a safe and judgement-free environment.
“We are a group which is welcoming and although we are not a counselling service, we can point you in the right direction if you do need to get additional help or you’re not sure where to start,” Ms Wing said.
Ms Cruise said the centre offered a range of activities, as well as providing residents with an area to have a chat, a coffee and a ‘break from everything’.
The pair said there could be stigma around mental illness, however research shows one in five adults have, or will have, mental illness in their lifetime.
“We always encourage people to have a chat with their GP first if they think they need to talk to someone and for people to know that help is out there and they’re not alone,” Ms Wing said.
Ms Wanganeen encouraged individuals who have noticed someone in their family or friend circles may be struggling to check in with them.
“If you know them well enough to pick up that something is not right, just asking ‘are you okay, you do not seem to be yourself ‘ is a good first step,” she said.
“If they tell you there are some things going on in their life, try as well to listen with empathy and intent.
“Sometimes we think we are helping by comparing ourselves but sometimes that can take the focus off the person who needs to share their concern.
“After that encourage them to take action if they need it and check back in on them … to show your ongoing support.”
The Junction is open Tuesdays from 1pm to 3pm and Thursdays from noon to 3pm with initial appointments conducted by a coordinator or volunteer for registration.
Contact junctioncoord@gmail.com or 8792 9245 for further information.
If you or someone you know is at risk of taking their own life call Lifeline 131 114 or 000 in an emergency.
