You’re not alone: Support is available – when you know where to look.
We all have tough days, the ups and downs of life, eh? At LIVIN, we believe in the power of speaking up to feel better. Seeking support and finding that shoulder to lean on doesn’t make you weak or crazy; it’s a human need. Let’s change our perspective: “It Ain’t Weak to Speak.”
Reach out to the people around you: family, friends, teachers, coaches, work colleagues. Don’t underestimate the value of speaking with someone you trust. Speak up! Opening up to a familiar face, a trusted ally can be incredibly helpful.
If you feel that your struggles go beyond the support network you have or if you’re seeking more ‘profesh’ assistance, it’s worth consulting a GP. Keep in mind that the level of experience in mental health support can vary among GPs, but don’t let that discourage you. Many GPs are willing to have an insightful conversation with you, and if necessary, they can ALL provide referrals through a Mental Health Treatment Plan (ask them directly about this) to professionals such as psychologists.
Just like you can receive Medicare benefits when visiting a doctor, certain mental health professionals offer subsidised consultation fees for the treatment of mental health issues. With a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you can access partial or full fee subsidies, making mental health care more affordable and accessible.
If you’re not too worried about subsidised support, another option is to reach out to a mental health professional directly. Maybe you’ve received a solid recommendation from a friend or family member, or perhaps you’re finding it challenging to schedule an appointment with your GP. Choose the process that feels most comfortable and affordable to you, ensuring you get the efficient support you need.
If you don’t feel a connection with your mental health professional over time, kindly ask to see someone else. It’s crucial to give yourself the time to find the right fit. Don’t give up! Like finding comfy shoes, it may take a few tries before you discover the best fit for you.
In addition to reaching out to your social network and potentially seeking professional support, there are plenty of things you can do to take care of your mental health – we call this self-care or self-help. Self-care should always be something you are prioritising and don’t underestimate the basics!
For those interested in more information about things like self-care, how to deal with stress, what to do if you’re in a tough place, how to build self-confidence (the list goes on), click here
If you are in crisis and need support right now, click here
For information on specific mental health services that may be suitable for you, click here
1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness each year. Many suffer in silence due to the stigma and lack of education around mental health. LIVIN is helping change this. Each flag represents where we have delivered our LIVINWell In School program. Help us fill the map and spread the word that “It ain’t weak to speak”.
