Mental health week

This Sunday is World Mental Health Day and the start of Mental Health Week in Australia. The theme this year is Do You See What I See?

The campaign this year aims to challenge some of the stereotypes and perceptions of mental illness. They are encouraging everyone to look at mental illness in a more positive light. With one in five Australians experiencing a mental illness in any 12-month period, it’s time for us to reduce the stigma so that more people feel encouraged to seek help when they need it.

For World Mental Health Day, they are encouraging everyone to make a #MentalHealthPromise to help reduce the stigma.

Examples of some of the promises you can make

• Let my kids know that it is OK for them to talk about their feelings
• Check in with my workmates to make sure they are alright
• Talk to my mates and let them know that I am here to listen
• If I am not feeling well, I will tell my family and close friends that I need support
• Be more open about my experiences.

World Mental Health Day is also the start of Mental Health Week in Australia. There are events taking place across the country, take a look to see if there is something near you:

• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• Queensland
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• Victoria
• Western Australia

MensLine Australia is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with professional counsellors providing information and support for all emotional health and relationship issues.

Call us on 1300 78 99 78 or access online counselling.