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In today's world, mental health issues are on the rise, making it essential to understand their effects and how to help those suffering. Let's educate ourselves and others about mental health, opening the door to a supportive and understanding society.
Educate yourself and inform others
Learning about mental health is a significant first step towards understanding the problem. This knowledge allows you to not only maintain your own mental well-being but also to help others, answering questions like: "What are the signs of mental distress?" and "How can we provide support to someone struggling emotionally?"
Listen without judgment
One of the easiest ways to support someone with mental health issues is to listen without judgement. Many people fear discussing their mental health because of societal stigma. So how can we improve this? By offering an understanding ear. Engage in open and frank discussions, letting them know it's OK to share their feelings.
Volunteering in Local Mental Health Awareness Programmes
One wonderful way to contribute to this cause is by volunteering in local mental health awareness programs. These programmes often provide training to volunteers, giving you the tools you need to support those suffering from mental health issues. And remember, your participation not only makes a difference for those in need but also enriches your own life.
Adopting a Holistic Approach to Helping Others
When it comes to mental health support, taking a holistic approach is crucial. This method appreciates the person as a whole, considering their physical, emotional, social and spiritual well-being. Giving just some food for thought, could a change in diet or an introduction of regular exercise help improve mental health? The answer is often yes.
Checking Your Mental Health Condition
Aside from helping others, we must also monitor our own mental health. Self-checks are crucial in maintaining our well-being, and if something doesn't feel right, seeking professional help is always encouraged. Use our free Mental Health Checklist
Encourage Kind Language
The words we use can make a profound difference. Negative comments or insensitive language can alienate and upset those struggling with mental health issues. Instead, why not use kind, understanding language to create a supportive environment for open discussions?
Donate your Time or Money
Finally, if you have the means, donating your time or money to mental health organisations can make a vast difference in the lives of those affected by mental health issues. This selfless act embodies the saying 'every little bit helps'.
Conclusion
Everybody plays a role in supporting mental health awareness and De-stigmatisation. By promoting education, non-judgmental discussions, volunteering, and self-care, we can create a better society and provide a ray of hope for individuals dealing with mental health issues. So, ask yourself this: "How will I make a difference today?"
If you need help or want to talk use these services :
New Zealand:
Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
The Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 (to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions).
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.
The Lowdown: Text 5626 for support to help young people recognise and understand depression or anxiety.
Alcohol Drug Helpline (0800 787 797)
Australia:
Butterfly Foundation's National Helpline is a free, confidential service that provides information, counselling and treatment referral for people with eating disorders, and body image and related issues. Call 1800 33 4673, 8am-midnight AEST / 7 days a week, chat online or email.
eheadspace provides free online and telephone support and counselling to young people 12 – 25 and their families and friends. Call 1800 650 890, 9am – 1am AEST / 7 days a week, chat online or email.
FriendLine supports anyone who's feeling lonely, needs to reconnect or just wants a chat. You can call them 7 days a week on 1800 424 287, or chat online with one of their trained volunteers. All conversations with FriendLine are anonymous.
Head to Health gives advice and will connect you to local mental health services. Call 1800 595 212. Check the operating times.
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counselling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.
Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online.
MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online counselling service offering support to Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or organise a video chat.
MindSpot is a free telephone and online service for people with anxiety, stress, low mood or depression. It provides online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression. MindSpot is not an emergency or instant response service. Call 1800 61 44 34.
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