While people in medical professions and government are becoming increasingly invested in ways to combat mental health issues in Australia, the truth is everyday people like us can also play a positive role in the lives of those affected by it in our community. It is something we all have to support each other with and work on together, which is why at X-Press we’re proud to support the Think Mental Health organisation.
Think Mental Health is a key part of Western Australia’s state wide programme focused towards educating and raising awareness about ways to maintain good mental health and reduce mental health issues.
The primary message Think Mental Health want to emphasise is that “talking and listening are powerful.” They also aim to provide people with better access to information and services and help them build resilience to improve the mental health and well-being of the Western Australian community.
As Men’s Health Week from June 10 to 16 is fast approaching, Think Mental Health will be campaigning to raise awareness around issues, services and education of male mental health within WA. The matter of male mental illness is a paramount issue facing our community since three out of four deaths by suicide in Western Australia are male.
It is highly important to give recognition towards the fact that mental health issues can affect anyone, and the Think Mental Health campaign encourages men, family and friends to check in on their mate or someone close to them and see how they’re going. They also urge everyone to increase their knowledge about the signs and symptoms of mental illness, to talk and listen to the people they are close to within their lives and to ask for help when it is needed.
On the Think Mental health website there are valuable resources to help you understand and gain knowledge on how to spot mental health issues, services that are provided and how to access them, particularly in cases where it can be tricky due to financial status. Think Mental Health also provide helpful infographics on where and how you can access low-cost help promptly.
For more information go to the Think Mental Health website.
If you or anyone you know is suffering from mental health issues please don’t hesitate to contact the Mental Health Emergency Response Line:
Phone: 1300 555 788 (Perth Metro Residents)
Phone: 1800 676 822 (Peel Residents)
Website: nmahsmh.health.wa.gov.au/emergency/
