Today lets discuss another very important topic, which sometimes seen in taboo subject in our community, MENTAL HEALTH. Believe it or not it does leads to to embarrassment and fear for the members of the community who do have Mental illness. This is a very serious issue that needs to be addressed so that those suffering can get the help needed. Specially now with the pandemic it becomes much more important that we address and speak about this issues. Objective is simple and in line with our value. to be connected, help each other and to promote mental health and increase awareness of mental illness
For the definition, Mental health refers to cognitive, behavioral, and emotional well-being. It is all about how people think, feel, and behave. People sometimes use the term “mental health” to mean the absence of a mental disorder. Mental health is our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Mental health does not only affect the way we think, feel, and act but also how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices
In terms of statistics: Mental illness in Australia Mental illness is very common. One in five (20%) Australians aged 16-85 experience a mental illness in any year. The most common mental illnesses are depressive, anxiety and substance use disorder. These three types of mental illnesses often occur in combination. For example, a person with an anxiety disorder could also develop depression, or a person with depression might misuse alcohol or other drugs, in an effort to self-medicate. Of the 20% of Australians with a mental illness in any one year, 11.5% have one disorder and 8.5% have two or more disorders. Almost half (45%) Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime [Source: blackdoginstitute.org.au Blackdog Institute – UNSW- Prince of Wales Hospital]
In our lives, sometimes challenges we face can leave us beaten. Couple it with anxiety, worry, stress, disappointment, anger etc, even the people will strong will power can feel the effects. Remember, everyone struggles with issues in their lives. Having the right attitude to combat challenges are crucial for mental & emotional health. Every little thing you do for yourself matters. We encourage you to make your mental health a priority. Your mental health influences how you think, behave and feel in your daily life. It also affects your ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships, and recover from life’s setbacks and hardships.
If we as a community are to move forward and remove the stigma associated with mental health, the first thing we should do is not emphasize unjustified prejudices and put more hate into the world. We should all push for the same common goal of love and humility in a place where people can live free from fear.
The purpose of this post is to let you know that your community is with you all the time and doesn’t matter Whether mental health is caused by pandemic, job related, biological factors, life experiences, or family history, it is important to know that help is available. It would be great if our members member can tag themselves or their friends who are happy to help members who are suffering and provide them with much needed emotional support (not financial). There are few members in our group itself, hopefully will contact you for support. Remember The best thing you can do is offer support – listen to what the person has to say and believe what is being said.
Some tips that might help
- Take care of your physical health, Eat Well and Get enough sleep
- Help others and you will help yourself
- Focus on the positive aspects of life
- Live in the present moment
- Surround yourself with positive people and Keep in touch with people
- Ask for help if you need it, Remember everyone needs help time to time
If you need someone to talk to, call:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
headspace on 1800 650 890
QLife on 1800 184 527
You can also get in contact with your GP or a professional that can support you though these times. In addition to above there are several Indian communities here who are always for support
