What does this really mean ?
Being a mental health ally means creating a safe space where people feel comfortable discussing thier mental state, seeking treatment and sharing their stories with others.
It is about fighting stigma and about supporting the mental health in and of your community.
One in five Australian adults have a diagnosable mental illness in any one year. Almost half Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. Sadly, many will not seek help. There are lots of reasons for this; and one of the biggest barriers is around the stigma.
The fact is that everyone faces difficult situations that challenge their mental health and the bottom line is that mental health is for everyone. We can help to normalise the conversation so people can get the help they need more quickly and easily.
How can I be a mental health ally?
Click on the links below
Build your knowledge
Learn about mental health and gain an understanding of different disorders. The most common disorders are anxiety and depression.
Learn from people with their own lived experience- there are lots of places to find this. . Social media, podcasts, YouTube and even TikTok.
Grow your conversation toolkit
When someone is struggling with a mental health problem, it can be difficult for them to ask for help. Eliminate one barrier by reaching out and starting the conversation yourself.
The language you use matters
Be aware of the language you use, especially around mental health, and try and challenge yourself not to use stigmatising language and ask others not to use it if you notice it being used.
Familiarise yourself with crisis support options , so that you can connect people to help if needed.
Take care of your own mental health
Don’t brush your mental wellness under the rug or write things off as ‘just a bad day.’ By advocating for your own mental health and seeking treatment when you need it, you help to normalise the topic and motivate others to do the same.
Lead by example
Role model the change we want to see. Communicate with kindness and compassion. Express empathy and non-judgement. Speak up in support of others. Normalise talking about feelings and emotional experiences – others and your own.
TOGETHER WE CAN ALL MAKE A DIFFERENCE
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