Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources
There is still a lot of stigma when it comes to mental health, but know that it’s okay to not be okay, you are not alone and you can seek help.
Recently, Let’s Talanoa held 4 sessions exploring theological, statistical and sociological aspects of mental health, led by guest presenter Bradon French. With the conclusion of these sessions, and as we enter into October, Mental Health Awareness Month, this is a good time to share resources to for mental health and well-being.
Head to Health: Can help you find the right Australian digital mental health and wellbeing resources, for yourself or for someone you care about. Whether you are trying to improve your own sense of wellbeing, looking for help with something that is bothering you, or helping someone you care about—Head to Health is a good place to start.
Headspace: Delivers support to young people aged from 12 to 25 years to reduce the impact of depression, anxiety, stress, alcohol and drug use, and to improve relationship issues associated with sexuality, sexual health, families, and bullying. Young people and their families can get support at a headspace centre as well as online and telephone support service, and eheadspace.
Kids Helpline: A service for young people to call (1800 55 1800) anytime, for any reason. For some families, it can help to talk to your parents about what’s going on for you. But we understand not everybody is comfortable telling their parents.
Beyond Blue: Provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live, especially anyone experiencing depression or anxiety. Support services include telephone (1300 22 4636), online chat and email.
They also provide a simple checklist that aims to measure whether you may have been affected by depression and anxiety during the past four weeks. This can be a good starting point if you are unsure of your current mental well-being.
MensLine Austraia: A service for men that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with professional counsellors providing information and support for all relationship issues. Support services include telephone (1300 78 99 78), online chat and online video counselling.
Lifeline: Australia’s leading suicide prevention service, providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24-hour crisis support.
Suicide Call Back Service: Provide free counselling for suicide prevention & mental health via telephone (1300 659 467), online & video for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts, 24/7.
Black Dog Institute: Promotes better mental health through their clinically-endorsed school, workplace and community programs. They are also involved in training the next generation of health care providers through GP, psychologist and psychiatrist programs.
A family or local GP can also be a good place to start if you need some help but unsure of the online resources provided. If you are unsure on how to approach a GP, Headspace provides a fact sheet on this.
The VIC/TAS Synod also provide an array of resources and shared stories on mental health and wellbeing, including a Mental Health Kit for Congregations.
Remember, mental health is a state of well-being, just like physical health. Sometimes we are more mentally well, and sometimes we need some help to get back to a good mental space.
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Ofa Foiakau is the Field Officer (Central/West), and responsible for youth/high school ministry as a part of the PULSE team.
