Why is Mental Health Month important?


This year’s Mental Health Month theme is ‘Post pandemic recovery, challenges and resilience’. It’s no surprise that mental health conversations have skyrocketed since the beginning of the pandemic. However, it’s important to acknowledge that for many, addressing mental health is something that’s always been an issue, even without a global pandemic.

At CoAct, we believe mental health and social and emotional wellbeing should always come first. But a dedicated month to shine a light on it is important too. The more we talk about it, the more we can break down barriers and reduce stigma.

Statistics you should know


Mental ill-health is more common than you think:

  • 1 in 5 Australian adults will experience a mental illness in any year.
  • Almost 1 in 5 Australians and almost 1 in 3 young Australians have felt highly distressed in recent months.
  • 3 million Australians are living with anxiety or depression.
  • One quarter of Australians will experience an anxiety condition in their lifetime.
  • 1 in 7 Australians will experience depression in their lifetime.

These figures suggest more people are waking up to mental health issues, and change is happening:

  • Suicide rates in Australia are at a five-year low.
  • The estimated cost of workplace absenteeism due to mental ill-health is around $10 billion per year. A result of this staggering cost is that employers are increasingly taking mentally healthy workplaces much more seriously.
  • Between 16 March 2020 and 25 April 2021, over 15 million Medicare-subsidised mental health-related services were processed. That means more and more people are recognising the need to look after themselves by accessing professional help.
  • Since March 2020, 86% of Australians took steps to manage their physical health (and we know looking after our physical health is good for mental health) and 67% took steps to manage their mental health. It’s promising that most Australians are being mindful of their mental and physical health.

 

Supporting jobseekers and their mental health


Looking for work can be a stressful time for anyone, especially those of us with a mental health condition. Being out of work can significantly impact our wellbeing.
The team at CoAct understands these challenges. We support you across many areas of your life so you can work out what you want to do and secure a job you enjoy.
When we first start working together, we’ll spend time getting to know your personal situation and needs. Making sure you’re connected to the right health professionals and support network are fundamental first steps. It’s only when we have these in place that we’ll start to think about employment.

And we don’t just support you and your mental health while you’re looking for a job. We stay by your side when you’re in work too. We provide mentoring, training and a person to talk to so you can thrive.

We really care about the jobseekers we work with and want to make sure they find a workplace they’re happy in. Why? The average person spends about 90,000 hours at work, a third of our life! Finding a supportive employer should always be a priority. That’s why we work closely with employers to educate and support them too.

If you’re looking for work and living with a diagnosed mental health condition, like anxiety or depression, register for Disability Employment Services.

 

Where to get help


If you, or someone you care for, is struggling with mental ill-health, here’s where you can go to for help:

  • In an emergency, call 000.
  • Lifeline Australia – for 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or chat online.
  • 24/7 Suicide Call-Back Service – for people at risk of suicide, their carers and bereaved. Call 1300 659 467 or chat online.
  • Kids Helpline – 24/7 support for under 25 year-olds. Call 1800 55 1800 or chat online.
  • Beyond Blue and Black Dog Institute – resources for dealing with mental ill-health.
  • Your GP – for referral to the right support services a Mental Health Plan. This lets you claim up to 20 sessions each year with a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor.

Want to know more?

Get in touch with the CoAct team today
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