World mental health day

World Mental Health Day is on 10 October. In Australia, 1 in 5 people are affected by mental illness, yet many don’t seek help because of stigma. Mental Health Australia is encouraging everyone to make a promise to help shed a more positive light on mental health.

How to improve your mental health

• 2 in 5 Australians don’t get enough sleep. Find out why a good night’s sleep can benefit your mental health. Try and get an early night during Mental Health Month.
• Staying active can increase your wellbeing. Read more on the link between physical and mental health. See if you can find a way to be more active in October. It can be a walk around the block or parking a little further away from the entrance of a building.
• Consider disconnecting to connect. Are your tech habits stopping you from tuning into what’s going on around you? Could you give up social media one night a week during October?
• Laugh out loud more.
• Find out if the people in your life need support. SuicideLine has some resources if you are concerned about someone.
• Share your journey with your friends and family to help them understand your experience.

During Mental Health Month in October, the Victorian Mental Health Foundation is running a series of events around the theme of Mental Health for All. Visit the website for more details.

And finally, mental health is the number one reason people go to the GP, according to a new report from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.

If you’re struggling to get time to see your doctor, remember our SuicideLine Victoria counsellors are here 24/7 to help you: Call 1300 651 251.

If it is an emergency, call 000.