Prioritise Mental Health In October

National Mental Health Month is an opportunity to make mental health a priority and to raise awareness of issues around mental health.

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network CEO, Melissa Neal said the awareness month gave people the opportunity to focus on mental wellbeing and foster community connections and resilience.

“As we emerge from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and enter a post-pandemic environment, people should be reminded to remain vigilant of their mental health and refresh their knowledge of the different resources and support services available in the region,” Ms Neal said.

MPHN Mental Health Drug and Alcohol Manager, Maja Asmus also reminded the community to stay connected with family and friends and their local GP.

“While mental health issues can be very isolating, connecting with people and having conversations about mental health can minimise stigma and encourage people to seek help when they need it,” Ms Asmus said.

“If you or someone you know is feeling a little overwhelmed or don’t know where to go for help, your GP is a really good first step.”

There are several mental health support services available to people in the Murrumbidgee region, including MyStep to Mental Wellbeing, a coordinated and comprehensive range of mental health services across the age range, which can be accessed via the MPHN Cental Access and Navigation Service on 1800 931 603 or via referral from a GP.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can also access mental health services at Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service and the Riverina Medical Aboriginal Corporation.

Young people can access a range of headspace services including the Youth Enhancement Program which provides support to young people with, or at risk of, severe mental illness.

MapMyRecovery, a localised online directory, is inclusive and available on all devices and makes it easy to locate appropriate services and other useful information such as diagnosis, networks and advocacy, emergency or crisis support.

Visit www.mphn.org.au/mental-health for further information about services available across the region.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency, call Accessline in the Murrumbidgee on 1800 800 9444, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or dial 000.

• Topics:

• Mental Health and Welbeing