Looking after yourself and supporting others this Mental Health Month

October is World Mental Health Month and a reminder for everyone to look after our own mental health and wellbeing.

It’s also a good opportunity to look out for those who might be struggling with life and to lend our support, with the theme this year being: Awareness. Belonging. Connection.

1 in 5 Australians are affected by mental illness annually (ABS, National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing, 2022), but the truth is that we all face challenges from time to time. These can include; relationship difficulties, stress, financial challenges, periods of major change at work or home, loss, grief and health issues.

People won’t always tell you if something’s troubling them, so it’s important that we all make asking, ‘are you OK?’ a part of our everyday relationships with friends, family, teammates and colleagues.

Did you know that crisis lines are available to everyone? Watch the video below to see how you can access help services for guidance and tips on supporting others.

R U OK? CEO Katherine Newton says you don’t have to be an expert to support someone you care about. Showing them that you care by checking in can make a massive difference for them, not just in October, but any day it’s needed.

“This Mental Health Month, pause and consider how you connect with those who are experiencing a mental health condition, or finding things tough, Ms Newtown said.

“Are you worried you’ll say the wrong thing? Are you thinking that it’s not your place to ask how they’re feeling at the moment? Are you hesitant that you might not know how to help them?

“These thoughts are common, however try flipping those thoughts and think about how challenging it may be for them to trust and share.

“If you come from a heartfelt place and put any pre-conceived ideas to one side - you can help someone feel seen, heard and supported.

“We all want to know someone has got our back. This Mental Health Month, let someone know they belong in your team.”

We all want to support those we care, but to do that we have to look after ourselves too. Keep up wellbeing activities and the things that bring you joy. These might include:

• Getting out in nature
• Exercising
• Practising good sleeping and eating habits
• Taking a break from scrolling on social media
• Catching up with friends and family

If you aren’t in the right headspace to support someone, that’s OK. Perhaps find someone who is better placed to. If you are ready to lend your support, here’s what you can this Mental Health Month, and every day.

• Ask R U OK? Pick a time and a place that is comfortable for you both. Be relaxed and friendly in your approach. If they don’t want to talk, let them know you are there for them when they are ready, or ask if there is someone else they’ve be more comfortable talking to.
• Listen with an open mind. Don’t interrupt or try to solve their problems. Encourage them to explain what they are feeling and experiencing.
• Encourage them to take action. It could be accessing professional support or doing something they enjoy to lighten the load, even better if you can do it together. Asked what they’ve done in the past that has helped or what things bring them joy.
• Check In - don’t just leave the conversation there. Instead, organise to catch up again. Ask them how they’re feeling and if they’ve found ways to better manage their situation. If they haven’t done anything, be encouraging and remind them you’re always there if they need a chat.

You can find more tips at our How to Ask page and access  Mental Health Australia resources for Mental Health Month here.

If you or someone you know is doing it tough, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14 and you can find other services and supports here.