Hello Readers,
I'm writing from home today, not from the Wantirna and Knox area where I usually work. Since it's still Mental Health Month this October, I wanted to write about some helpful resources you can access if you're looking for information, someone to talk to, or just some support.
Reaching out for help can be hard, but it's the first step on your mental health journey. I reached out for support myself, and I feel much better for it. Knowing the right service to turn to can make a big difference. It means you're more likely to get the kind of help that truly suits your needs.
The first service I want to mention is Beyond Blue. You can speak with a counsellor online or by calling 1300 22 4636. They also offer a Mental Health Coach for up to six sessions, which you can access through their website. Beyond Blue also provides information about different support groups you can join.
Another important service is Lifeline, which you can reach by calling 13 11 14. This service is focused on crisis support. If you're really not coping and things feel overwhelming, Lifeline is there to talk to you when you can't wait for other support.
Headspace is another great option, especially for young people. You can speak with a clinician, although I'm not quite sure how long the wait times are. You can visit their website and select your area to get started. Once you've chosen your location and signed up, you'll find the contact number for that specific office. I also noticed that Headspace has a program for early psychosis, which could be helpful for people experiencing those kinds of challenges.
Lastly, there's the Black Dog Institute. They provide a wide range of mental health resources and research. Their website includes useful information about apps you can download, such as the Sleep Ninja app and a depression self-assessment. They also have tools to connect you with clinicians online and provide information about support groups. Their topics cover everything from depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder, PTSD, and suicide prevention.
If anything I’ve written today has brought something up for you, I really encourage you to reach out. You're not alone, and there is help available.
Thank you for reading my blog.
Mental Health Resources and Supports