World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on the 10th of October. It is celebrated to help raise awareness of mental health and help drive positive change for mental health around the world. It’s a chance for us to talk about mental health, what you can do if you’re struggling, and where you can get help.
Looking after our mental health and well-being is just as important as keeping our bodies healthy. It’s important to know the signs that could indicate that you (or a friend or family member) are struggling and when to get help.
So, this year, for World Mental Health Day, KompleteCare is raising awareness for mental health by talking about some of the signs to look out for, how to recognise them, and where you can get help, either for yourself or someone else.
Warning signs to look out for
Feeling anxious or worried: We all worry from time to time, but if you find that the worry or anxiety is constant and interfering with your daily life, it could be a sign of a mental health disorder, such as anxiety. Other signs of anxiety can include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, headaches, sweating, trembling, dizziness, restlessness, or a racing mind.
Issues with sleep: Prolonged changes in a person’s sleeping patterns can indicate poor mental health. This can include anything from insomnia or sleeping too much or too little.
Changes in weight or appetite: Rapid changes in weight, such as weight loss or gain, can be a warning sign for a mental health disorder, such as an eating disorder or even depression.
Major changes in mood: Like worrying, we all get sad sometimes, but if you find yourself sad or irritable for a few weeks or longer, it could be a sign of depression. Other signs of depression can include a lack of motivation and energy, losing interest in a hobby, or feeling teary all the time.
Feeling guilty or worthless: Frequently criticising or blaming yourself, along with thoughts like ‘I’m a failure’ or ‘I’m worthless’ are potential signs of depression. If these thoughts or feelings are severe, they may also come with thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Self-isolation and quietness: Isolating yourself or withdrawing from life, especially if this is out of the blue for someone, could be a sign of a mental health disorder. Avoiding social activities or missing regular sporting events may indicate that you or a friend needs help.
Where can you get help?
Beyond Blue is a service aiming to increase awareness of depression and anxiety that is available for people who are struggling 24/7. You can call 1300 224 363, chat online or email.
Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. You can call 13 11 14, text 0477 131 114, or chat online.
MensLine Australia is a 24-hour counselling service available online and over the phone, offering support to Australian men. You can call 1300 789 978, chat with a counsellor online, or organise a video chat.
Headspace offers free online and telephone support and counselling to young people aged 12-25, as well as to their family and friends. They’re available from 9:00 am – 1:00 am 7 days a week, and you can call 1800 650 890, chat online or email.
MindSpot is a free online and phone service for people struggling with their mental health. They provide online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression, but they are not an emergency or instant response service. You can access them online or call 1800 614 434.
Suicide Call Back Service provides 24/7 phone support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. You can call them on 1300 659 467.
For our KompleteCare clients, we also offer mental health care and support. Our Client Service Managers and Support Coordinators work with Behavioural Support Specialists and the client to ensure the best strategies are in place and will work as a team regularly to reinforce what is happening and work on strategies or changes to make any necessary improvements. For more information, contact your Client Services Manager or call us on (08) 8265 5696.
Emergency mental health care
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others, it is an emergency, and you should call triple zero (000) or head to your nearest emergency department.
Each Australian state and territory has their own mental health telephone triage service, which you can call for help for yourself or someone else and is available 24/7.
To find your state’s mental health telephone triage service and more information, head to HealthDirect.
For World Mental Health Day, KompleteCare has also created a printable infographic, complete with all of the warning signs to look out for and where you can get help. Click here to download and print our infographic.
