Mental Health is something which so many of us struggle. The stigma relating to mental health has lessened, but still lingers, even in 2024.

We all know someone, or are someone who struggles with mental health.

Mental disorders (or mental illnesses) are conditions that affect your thinking, feeling, mood, and behavior. They may happen over a short period of time or come and go. Some can be chronic (long-lasting).

Everyone tells you to reach out if you’re feeling mental distress, but sometimes reaching out is really hard. Stigma, shame, and prejudice all contribute to people feeling unable to reach out when they’re going through tough times. It can be so hard to watch and know someone is going through mental issues. The human desire to help is strong, but putting it into practical practise is another thing entirely.

The theme of WayAhead's Mental Health Month for 2024 is Let's Talk About It.

“Let’s Talk About It” emphasies the significance of open dialogue and communication regarding mental health across various platforms and settings. The theme’s “Talk” aspect highlights the importance of inclusive discussions, considering diverse needs and utilising different mediums for conversation. Meanwhile, the “It” component, is open-ended, allowing individuals to choose the topics they want to discuss. This could encompass conversations of lived experience stories, navigating mental health systems, or seeking resources and support. By embracing this flexibility, we empower people to engage in discussions that are meaningful and relevant to their own experiences. Whether it’s sharing coping strategies, advocating for better access to mental health care, or simply lending a listening ear, the “It” component encourages a wide range of conversations that promote understanding and support of mental health.

42.9% of people aged 16–85 years had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life.

21.5% of people had a 12-month mental disorder, with Anxiety being the most common group (17.2% of people aged 16–85 years).

38.8% of people aged 16–24 years had a 12-month mental disorder.

WayAhead is the organisation behind Mental Health Month. They work every day to educate people throughout New South Wales on mental health and wellbeing and link them to services and resources that improve their mental health.

Their vision is for a society that understands, values and actively supports the best possible mental health and wellbeing.

Visit their website https://mentalhealthmonth.wayahead.org.au/ to find free resources and things you can do to sup[port and promote mental health.

Share information about mental health on your social media, keep the conversation alive, and we can all work together and make people feel comfortable enough to share their experiences and reach out if they need help.

If you or someone you know are needing to reach out for help, there are resources out there.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 

Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636

MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

13YARN: 13 92 76