SUPPORT
WHY DOES MENTAL HEALTH NEED TO BE SUPPORTED?
It is essential that there is support for mental health. Mental health is a major part of every individual’s life. But sadly, mental illness is very common. One in five Australians, aged 16-85, experience a mental illness in any year. That is 20% of the population!
Support from family and friends can make all the difference for someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression or suicidal feelings.
Mental health needs to be supported so that people know that they are not alone. That they are not the only ones that are fighting. Each day, many people suffer from mental health issues. It is vital that these people know that there is support out there for them. By knowing that there is support available, they can seek help when in need. When times are tough, we all need to know that there is someone that we can turn to if we need help.
Without support, there would be many people suffering alone. Suffering alone just simply is not the answer when it comes to mental health. If there are any issues that arise, people need to know that they can go somewhere to get help. If there is no support, suicide rates would increase significantly. This is true because those who do not feel supported are much more likely to commit suicide.
Support is crucial so that people can learn to fight against their mental illnesses, instead of letting it take over their life. Not only can support help the person facing the issue but it can also help to educate others on mental health. This is evident on websites such as Reachout, and Beyond Blue.
HOW DO I KNOW IF SOMEONE NEEDS SUPPORT?
It is not always easy to tell if someone has a mental illness. The signs they may have a mental illness include:
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they are anxious or worried.
they are depressed or unhappy.
they have emotional outbursts.
they have sleep problems.
they have weight or appetite changes.
they are quiet or withdrawn.
they are misusing substances like alcohol or drugs.
they feel guilty or worthless.
you notice changes in their behaviour.
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If you notice a loved one with these signs you may want to encourage them to seek support.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
There are many ways in which you can help someone who is suffering with a mental illness.
Listen without making judgements and concentrate on their needs in that moment.
Ask them what would help them.
Ask if there is someone they would like you to contact.
Encourage them to seek support from a professional or support service.
Talking about mental health.
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​By talking to someone you can find out what is troubling them and what you can do to help. When you talk to them, you should set aside time with no distractions. You should also ensure that you don’t push them to tell you more than they want to. Let them share as much or as little as they like. Ensure that you listen carefully to what they tell you. This will help you to better understand their situation.
WHERE CAN PEOPLE SEEK SUPPORT FOR MENTAL HEALTH?
If you are concerned about a loved one you might encourage them to seek support from a support service such as lifeline, Beyond Blue, Reachout, etc.
There are many specialists that are there to help support those with mental illnesses. If you are concerned about yourself and/or a loved one it may be worthwhile looking into.
You may also choose to visit your local GP or doctor. Some people prefer to speak with a psychologist, this is also a great option.
ENSURE THAT YOU ARE LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF TOO.
It is important that you look after yourself when supporting someone else. You are being impacted when someone shares information about their mental health to you. Taking the time to care for yourself will help prevent you getting physically rundown and allow you to deal with the thoughts, emotions and stresses that can be associated with caring for someone with a mental illness.
