by Alex Williams, who wants to remind us that we each have the power to reach out and ask for help.
from unleash16 January 2012
Mental health is one of the biggest health issues faced by young people across Australia. The unfortunate reality is that it affects everyone, whether it is you personally, a family member or a friend-of-a-friend.
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1 in 4 young Australians live with a mental illness.
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75% of mental illnesses begin before the age of 25.
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In an Australian Year 12 classroom (with an average of thirty students):
- 7 young people will have experienced a recognised mental health difficulty
- Only 2 will have sought professional help.
- At least 1 will have attempted suicide.
The difficulty with mental health is that people’s experiences can vary greatly and can often be dismissed or misdiagnosed. That is why, if you or a friend have been feeling unwell, it is important to turn to the right people, places and services for help.
Your GP: Doctors are the gateway to the health system and to all of your mental health needs. You may be entitled to free sessions with a psychologist, but first you must see your GP to establish if you are eligible.
A Psychologist: Psychologists are trained in psychotherapies (that is, the power of talking it over) and can engage you in a structured therapy for a number of weeks, months, or years.
A Psychiatrist: Psychiatrists are trained medical doctors who specialize in mental illness. They can clinically diagnose you with a mental illness and prescribe medication to help relieve symptoms.
A Counsellor: You can talk to a counsellor at uni, TAFE, school or any community health centre and some youth centres. Do a quick google search to find one closest to you.
Youth Worker: Youth workers are trained in all things youth, and have connections to services, information and people that can help you. You can find them at youth centres and youth refuges. See YAPA's Find Youth Workers page.
Reach Out: Hop online (reachout.com) to read about other people’s experiences and to read up on specific information related to your feelings and situation.
Call Lifeline: Trained counsellors are available 24/7 for the cost of a local call. Dial 131 114.
Call Kids Helpline: You can call 1800 55 1800 or log onto kidshelpline.com.au to talk to online counsellors. Kids Helpline is available to anyone under 25.
beyondblue: a national service aimed at reducing depression rates. Their website (beyondblue.org.au) has heaps of information on mental illness, and also on services available to you.
The Black Dog Institute: The guys at the Black Dog Institute (www.blackdoginstitute.org.au) have handy info on where, when and how to get help for depression and bipolar disorder. They also have a lot of nifty online tools.
headspace: the national youth mental health service, with centres located all around Australia aimed at improving the mental health of young people. Use them! Check out headspace.org.au to find one closest to you.
And finally, if you find that your symptoms are really severe or even life threatening, go to the emergency department at your local hospital. Remember that you have the power to reach out and ask for help, and you have the right to receive it! You also have the right to refuse treatment of any kind if you are unsure or uncomfortable about it, and to get a second opinion.