talking about it Mental Health

talking about it What is mental health Protective factors for mental health Risk factors for mental illness The continuum of mental health and mental illness Resilience How to look after your mental health Help seeking Overview

talking about it “Mental Health is a state of wellbeing in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community” (WHO 2001) What is Mental Health?

talking about it Risk Factors increase the likelihood that mental health problems and mental disorders will develop Protective Factors enhance and protect positive mental health and reduce the likelihood that a mental disorder will develop Risk and Protective Factors

talking about it Individual level: Positive sense of self Good coping skills Strong family relationships Social skills Societal level: Safe and secure living environment Economic security Cultural identity Examples of Protective Factors Social level: Ability to communicate and interact well with others Supportive social relationships with parents/family/friends/peers Sense of belonging Community participation

talking about it Individual level: Low self esteem Poor coping skills Insecure family relationships Societal level: Neighbourhood violence and crime Poverty Unemployment Social or cultural discrimination Examples of Risk Factors Social level: Abuse and violence Separation and loss Peer rejection Social isolation

talking about it The continuum of Mental Health/ Illness Good Mental Health Mental Health Problems Mental Illness Many Protective Factors Many Risk Factors

talking about it “A person’s capacity to cope with changes and challenges and ‘bounce back’ during difficult times” Resilience

talking about it GP Counsellor/Family Therapist Psychologist Psychiatrist Mental health worker Help seeking

talking about it 5 Ways to Wellbeing Connect Be active Take notice Keep learning Give How to look after your Mental Health and Wellbeing

Activity: Looking after your mental health

talking about it There is no health without mental health There are factors that influence our mental health in positive and negative ways We can all experience changes in our mental health and wellbeing Summary

talking about it Resilience helps us to identify and harness resources and strengths in tough times Getting help early is important for your mental health 5 Ways to Wellbeing Summary

Questions?

talking about it Where to seek help and information Websites – select Transcultural Mental Health Centrewww.dhi.health.nsw.gov.au Services Local GP Mental Health Services Psychologist Psychiatrist Community Health Centre Local Support Groups Counselling Services Local Hospital

talking about it Where to seek help and information Helplines & Information Services NSW Mental Health Line Lifeline: SANE Australia Helpline: Kids Helpline: Mensline Australia: Beyondblue Information Line: Mental Health Information Service: