Mental Health Week is part of an Australian mental health promotion campaign held in October each year. It aims to promote the understanding and awareness of mental health and wellbeing and helps raise awareness and understanding about mental health issues and how they affect the lives of people in our community.
Mental health week is about embracing the idea of communities working together to:
- Build resilience
- Support each other through tough times
- Celebrate diversity and promote the things we can do to maintain our mental health
- Encourage people to seek help when they need it
Mental Illness
Mental illnesses are common amongst the Australian population.
‘A recent survey showed that 1 in every 5 Australians suffered from a mental disorder in a given year, and almost half the population has suffered a mental disorder at some time in their life. The most common mental disorders are depression, anxiety and substance use disorders.’1
Mental illnesses can affect many aspects of a person’s thoughts, mood, behaviour or the way they perceive the world around them. A mental illness can cause distress to the person it affects as well as those around them. It may the person’s ability to function at work, in relationships or in everyday tasks.
One of the biggest issues facing a person with a mental illness is that it can attract stigma and discrimination.
For a person with a mental illness, it is important to seek treatment. Psychological therapy, medication and lifestyle changes can be effective for mental illness.
Where to get Help
If you need help, talking to your trusted doctor is a great place to start. Here are some organisations that can also help:
SANE Australia (people living with a mental illness) – call 1800 18 7263.
beyondblue (anyone feeling depressed or anxious) – call 1300 22 4636 or chat online.
Black Dog Institute (people affected by mood disorders) – online help.
Lifeline (anyone having a personal crisis) – call 13 11 14 or chat online.
Suicide Call Back Service (anyone thinking about suicide) – call 1300 659 467.
References:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-illness
