Help shed a more positive light on Mental Health

Mental illness is not always visible, yet one in five Australians will experience a form of mental illness in one year. It is a common problem in our society yet it is not openly and respectfully talked about as much as physical illness.

If you photographed anxiety it would not necessarily show-up in a picture but we still see photos portraying mental illness with inaccurate stereotypes.

Stigma can lead to a lack of support and often people will avoid seeking help because of prejudice and misconceptions, which in turn leads to poor quality of life, isolation and sometimes, suicide.

TeamHEALTH works hard to reduce stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness. They deliver early intervention and education to better manage mental health in the Northern Territory.

The for-purpose organisation works with individuals of all ages, families and carers to support them on their mental health recovery journey. TeamHEALTH understands that each person’s journey is different and provides supports that are person-centred and recovery focused.

Katherine Wessling, Carer Support Worker at TeamHEALTH, explains that the role of a Carer can be a lonely place to be.

“Through education with and engagement with other Carers in similar situations, Carers are assisted to gain support, knowledge and increase confidence around their caring role. For some the knowledge that they aren’t alone can be a beacon of hope for their future,” said Katherine.

Nasim, a participant at TeamHEALTH, endured misconceptions from friends when he first experienced mental health concerns.

“At the age of 18 I was studying to be a chef and around that time I started to become unwell. My friends would say things like “what is wrong with you?” why are you acting strange?” and they just did not understand how I was feeling and what I was going through.

I would say the first step in mental health recovery is definitely accepting your diagnosis and beginning to get help. I have no regrets and continue to live and enjoy life to the full,” Nasim said.

During Mental Health Week, from 9-15 October, TeamHEALTH will be advocating for this year’s theme: ‘Do You See What I See?’ and will continue to challenge perceptions about mental illness in the Northern Territory; encouraging the community to look at mental health in a more positive light in an effort to reduce stigma and to assist people to seek help and support.

TeamHEALTH is collaborating with local services and organisations for a launch event at Raintree Park, Darwin, on Monday 9^th October from 9am till 1pm. The community is encouraged to come along and be a part of this free event to show your support and raise awareness in the wider community around mental health.

TeamHEALTH Open Days will take place during the week where the local community can view the services and meet the staff on the 12^th October:

• Day to Day Living centre, 10am till 11:30am: Rapid Creek Business Village, 48 Trower Road, Millner
• Papaya, 12pm till 1:30pm: 76 Kurrajong Crescent, Nightcliff

A video has also been created by TeamHEALTH to educate and show the effects of mental illness, how this can affect people from all walks of life in our community and how you can get help for yourself or a loved one. Watch it here. 

Everyone can play a part in reducing the stigma and creating a positive perception around mental health and wellbeing in our community.

Why not start today?

ENDS

For further information:

Hayley Aylott, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, TeamHEALTH

Phone: (08) 8943 9600   Email: communications@TeamHEALTH.asn.au