Mental Health Information

Depression

Depression is a serious condition. It significantly affects the way you think and feel, and makes life feel more difficult to manage.

Feeling sadness can be a common reaction to some of life’s struggles. But when feelings of intense sadness (or feeling helpless, hopeless and worthless) are intense, last for more than a couple of weeks and keep you from functioning normally, you may be dealing with something more than sadness. The good news is that effective treatments for depression are available.

For more information on depression please follow this link:

 https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/depression

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety has an important role to play in helping us get around safely in the world. Anxiety can act as an ‘early warning sign’ in a range of risky situations. Problems with anxiety occur when people have trouble when they can’t stop worrying about things, or when they see situations as much worse than they actually are. Anxiety interferes with the enjoyment of life and disrupts work, relationships and self-perceptions. Importantly, problems with anxiety are treatable. Learning about anxiety is an important first step in taking control.

For more information about anxiety disorders please follow this link:

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/anxiety

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition which can occur after someone has experienced a potentially traumatic event. Strong reactions such as fear, anger, sadness and hopelessness are natural after such events. It’s also common to struggle with distressing memories of the event (for example, having nightmares).

In most cases these experiences pass with time. Taking care of yourself, staying involved in life’s routines, and staying connected with family, friends or colleagues are all important parts of recovery.

IIf these reactions are severe, interfere with people’s ability to engage with everyday life, work and relationships and persist over time, then they may be indications that it’s time to seek professional help. Effective treatment and supports for PTSD are available, and can help people get their lives back on track. However, it is quite normal to experience some mild signs and symptoms of PTSD for up to a few weeks after the event. If these reactions continue or worsen, please refer to a profession mental health support.

For more information about PTSD and treatment for post-traumatic mental health conditions please follow this link :

http://phoenixaustralia.org/recovery/what-are-traumatic-events/

Suicide Prevention

There is still a lot of taboo about discussing suicide, but suicidal thoughts and behaviour are common in society. More men than women attempt suicide and for every suicide there are tragic ripple effects for friends, family and the broader community.

If you think someone may be at risk of suicide it’s always best to ask them directly and unambiguously (e.g. asking “are you thinking of suicide?” or “are you thinking of taking your own life?”). Do not be afraid to do this, it will not put ideas into their head but will show them someone cares and is willing to talk about it. If they say they have been considering suicide, listen to them and allow them to express how they are feeling without judgement. Stay with them and get help through a crisis line like Lifeline (13 11 14) or 000 if life is in immediate danger.

For more information on suicide and suicide prevention please follow this link:

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/suicide-prevention

Substance Abuse

Substance use disorders occur when the use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs cause either immediate or long-term problems for people. For many people, substances like alcohol are a way of enhancing pleasant experiences. Sometimes it can be tempting to use substances to manage unpleasant feelings. Relying on substances to manage moods can become problematic – especially when it starts to impact on physical and/or mental health.

Signs of substance abuse problems include not being able control the amounts used, not feeling able to cope without the substance (dependency), and withdrawal symptoms. For some people, substance use leads to difficulties with work and maintaining meaningful relationships.

For more information substance abuse please follow this link:

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/drugs-alcohol-and-mental-health

Self Awareness

Self-awareness is having a conscious knowledge of one's own values, beliefs and feelings. Self-awareness helps build resilience, foster stronger connections with others and make appropriate changes when faced with life’s struggles or trauma.

LMK can support your self-awareness - the following suggestions may help you on this path:

Assess self-talk – what are you telling yourself about your situation? Do you tend towards negative thoughts or perceptions of yourself or others, or can you see the bright side?

Get your feelings out – Expressing your emotions can be difficult at times, but it can be really worthwhile. Our emotional responses to the things we experience can give us good information about what’s happening in and around us. Talk about what’s bothering you with a trusted friend or mental health professional.

For more information about self-awareness and mental health please follow this link –

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/what-is-mental-health