Self-Care Tips Ahead Of Mental Health Month

In the lead up to National Mental Health Month, the team at Wellways Young shared a little of what they do and what you can do to look after your mental health. Wellways is a leading national mental health charity that works to connect people, strengthen families and transform communities for individuals of all ages experiencing challenges to their social and emotional wellbeing.

Wellways provides local services for ages 12 and above to the wider Hilltops area and beyond that offer flexible and tailored psychosocial support and assistance in achieving identified goals and improving wellbeing.The support they provide depends on the needs of the individual and it can include developing daily living skills, connecting to other services, social inclusion within the community, or after suicide support.

Wellways is committed to keeping the community of Young mentally well. Even if you don’t need their services, these essential self-care tips can keep you mentally healthy:

• Stay connected to your friends, family and community;
• Take time to do the things you enjoy;
• Take care of yourself physically - find a new healthy recipe or new sport to try;
• Get the rest you need;
• Remember it’s okay to change plans or say no when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed; and
• Celebrate the achievements in your life, however small, and surround yourself with people who will celebrate them with you.

If someone you know is struggling, you can help. Tell them you are worried, and you want to help, and listen to how they are feeling. If you are worried they may be considering suicide, be direct and ask the question. If you believe they may suicide, do not leave the person alone and call Lifeline or 000 for an immediate response. Keeping them safe and getting professional help is the best thing you can do. A GP or mental health service like Murrumbidgee Accessline (1800 800 944) can help.

Wellways navigators in Young can assist with linking people in with services.This could be a referral into a Wellways program, or to housing, medical, and community mental health. You can contact the Service Navigator on 0434 676 145 or visit Wellways Young at 101 Lovell Street. You can also phone them on 1300 111 400 or visit www.wellways.org.

• Topics:

• Mental Health
• Health & Wellness
• Business Spotlight