In 2020, the Mental Health Week theme is Strengthening Our Community – Live, Learn, Work, Play as we aim at increasing mental wellbeing in WA communities.
The events of recent times have brought the social determinants of mental health into sharp focus across all of our communities and it’s important we take this opportunity of community awareness to bring attention to the need to safeguard people’s social determinants of mental health during and after the COVID-19 crisis has passed.
To build supportive communities, we must take a holistic look at mental health, sharing ideas, and learning from each other through every day activities.
Relationships Australia WA has developed two free online mental health training tools. These community learning tools highlight the importance of early intervention and are designed to help anyone to recognise the signs of mental health issues. The online training tools introduce the STRES model – five simple steps to give people the confidence and tools to talk to someone they may be concerned about.
They help users understand how to reach out and talk to a person they may be worried about, how to respond to what they say, and also how to obtain further support if needed.
Our website also contains range of mental health tip sheets and we will be promoting mental health literacy and self-care tips on our Facebook page during mental health week.
Manager for 4families Janalie Nelson said many individuals and families may be experiencing extra pressure due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and feeling anxious about the uncertainty of the future.
"People may have conflicting feelings about the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, the possibility of a second wave, or ongoing financial concerns, which can continue to have an impact on people’s mental health and relationships.
"We need to continue to check-in with children and young people and encourage them to talk about their worries and concerns but also talk to them what is going well and what they are grateful for”.
It can be a small thing, like the sun shining or something that made them laugh today.”
Please call us on 1300 364 277 to let us know how we can support you and your family.
About 4families
Our 4families program is a free service that focuses on prevention and early intervention by addressing issues that affect the mental and emotional well-being of children and young people. It is funded by the Department of Social Services.
About Mental Health Week WA
Mental Health Week has been coordinated in WA by the Western Australian Association for Mental Health (WAAMH) for more than 50 years, and is supported by the Government of Western Australia, Mental Health Commission and Lotterywest, plus many community organisations.
WAAMH is proudly part of Australia's mental health promotion group which plan awareness campaigns around World Mental Health Day (10 October).