And just like physical health, there are times when our mental health can fluctuate from feeling great, to not feeling well at all.
There are things people can do to take action, to get help and to feel better.
With October being Mental Health Month, the Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee will focus the next monthly Lifting Health Outcomes Talk on mental health and wellbeing.
Data tells us that about half of all Australian adults will experience poor mental health at some point in their lives.
In any year in Australia, it is estimated 1-in-5 people aged 16 to 85 will experience a mental disorder - most commonly depression and anxiety - as well as a substance use disorder.
“Sadly, in Australia more than 50 per cent of people with mental health conditions or problems do not seek help,” said Lourene Liebenberg, who is a member of both LHAC and the Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group.
There are lots of reasons for this, which include:
• People do not recognise the signs or know that what’s happening for them is a real, and treatable medical condition.
• People do not know the pathways to help.
• Stigmas associated with mental health.
• Availability and access to services.
“We are having this talk so we can talk about the signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions and the pathways to help,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“Mental health can improve, just like physical health, and there are many ways to get help when you don’t feel great.”
Deni MHAG is a locally led community group run by volunteers, and has an excellent website providing information on mental health and wellbeing, and a comprehensive directory highlighting pathways to help. It can be accessed at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.
Mrs Liebenberg, who is a trained mental health practitioner, will present the talk, alongside members of the Deniliquin Mental Health Drug and Alcohol team.
There will also be a short, focused talk on topics such as loss and grief and older people’s mental health.
“As always, there will be time for questions and a cuppa with free morning tea,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
Everyone is invited to attend. While registration is not required, RSVPs for catering purposes are appreciated by sending a text to Mrs Liebenberg on 0428 281 060.
• Anyone requiring crisis support can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. You can also contact the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au, and resources and pathways to help are also available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.
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