Media release – Mental Health Council of Tasmania, 7 October 2021
Tasmanians encouraged to stay on top of their mental wellbeing
Since the pandemic started early last year, much of the focus by government, media and community has been on the impact COVID is having on our mental health and wellbeing. With many Tasmanians feeling the fatigue caused by ongoing restrictions and constant news about lockdowns and case numbers in other states, the Mental Health Council of Tasmania (MHCT) has been working to understand the impacts of this situational distress on Tasmanians.
MHCT CEO, Connie Digolis, said “I think it’s fair to say that we’re all ‘a bit over it’ at this point. But there will be ups and downs, and it’s important to understand that any dip in our mental wellbeing is normal. ‘Situational distress’ is a human reaction to challenging circumstances. While it is to be expected, that doesn’t mean there aren’t things we can be doing to help lift our spirits and get through the current situation.”
She added that while it’s encouraging that people are becoming more aware of their own mental health and are reaching out for support when they realise they’re struggling, a greater focus on prevention is key to staying mentally fit and healthy.
“While there will always be a need for formal mental health supports and services, we should be firstly looking at ways to stay mentally well, rather than waiting until we’re unwell and then needing to reach out for professional support to help us get better. Maintaining mental health is about recognising the things we’re already doing that are good for our wellbeing, and identifying things we could improve on. While it’s great that we’re seeing more people reach out for support when they’re struggling; by finding things we can do every day to help keep us at our best, we reduce the risk of developing more serious mental health concerns. “
Assistance specifically for Tasmanians is available. ‘A Tasmanian Lifeline’, a 1800 phone service that was set up at the beginning of the pandemic, provides information on the resources available to support Tasmanians impacted by the pandemic, including social isolation, loss of employment, the impact on mental health, the financial challenges and, in the case of health professionals, working in a high-risk environment. You do not need to be in crisis to call. (1800 984 434).
In addition, MHCT created a website, which is designed to guide Tasmanians towards a range of information, resources, and advice to help them maintain and boost their mental wellbeing. It can be accessed via www.mhct.org. These were both funded by the Tasmanian Government as part of a support package announced at the beginning of the pandemic.
Mental Health Week in Tasmania also starts this Saturday, with a new theme for this year: ‘Awareness, Belonging, Connection’. The theme this year was chosen to reflect the importance of understanding our own mental wellbeing, and some of the important factors that we rely on to maintain and boost it. As part of the week, Tasmanians are being invited to participate in the many events that are happening across the state. The full program of events is available at www.mhct.org/program
Ms Digolis encouraged Tasmanians to access these resources if they have concerns, as our borders reopen, and we start learning to live with COVID.
Media release – Anglicare Tasmania, 7 October 2021
Join Anglicare on a Wellness Walk for Mental Health Week
Anglicare Tasmania is joining with local Neighbourhood Houses and other community organisations to host regional Wellness Walks for Mental Health Week (9-16 October):
Tuesday 12 October – Moonah:
Meet at the Moonah Community Centre (7 Gormanston Road Moonah) for a 1.00 p.m. departure. The walk will finish back at the Centre at 1.30 p.m. for a free BBQ lunch, music, activities and giveaways.
Wednesday 13 October – Newnham:
Meet at the Northern Community Centre, 49 George Town Road Newnham for an 11.00 a.m. departure. The walk will finish back at the Centre at 11.30 a.m. for a free BBQ lunch, music, activities and giveaways.
Wednesday 13 October – Burnie:
Meet at Woolworths, Upper Burnie for an 11.00 a.m. departure. The walk will finish at the Burnie Community House, 24 Wiseman Street Shorewell Park at 11.30 a.m. for a free BBQ lunch, music, activities and giveaways.
Why are we walking?
“Exercise and social connections are essential building blocks for good mental health,” said Anglicare’s General Manager Housing and Community Services.
“After the walk we encourage you to stay for a free BBQ, music and activities, and learn more about mental health in a friendly, welcoming environment.”
People are invited to dress in orange for the day.
For more information about Anglicare’s Mental Health Week events and resources visit the Anglicare website here. We also encourage people to contact us on 1800 243 232 if they require further information.
Media release – Mental Health Foundation Australia, 7 October 2021
MHFA Events coming up next week
The Mental Health Foundation Australia was established in 1930 as the nation’s first formal organisation with the key objective to support people facing mental challenges.
90 years on and the MHFA is still proudly researching for the newest best-practice ideas, and advocating for better mental health & support services across Australia. Did you know that many of the well-known mental health support services and organisations you hear of today were originally formed as part of a MHFA project or initiative?
We are incredibly proud to have promoted this growth and will continue to empower others to succeed as the key national mental health service connector and provider in Australia.
MHFA Events coming up:
CRIME AND MENTAL HEALTH SYMPOSIUM
Thursday 14 Oct 2021, 10 am – 12 pm
Hobart Function & Conference Centre
In line with the National Mental Health Month’s theme this year ‘Mental Health: Post Pandemic Recovery Challenges and Resilience’, the Mental Health Foundation Australia has organised a Tasmanian symposium in aim of further exploring the type of support & services available for offenders both inside and outside of prison. This event will provide the opportunity for participants to discuss what can be done to improve my these services and how mental health issues can be proactively minimised better across all systems of justice into the future. It will also be a key opportunity to consider the victims of crime and what they require to support their journey forward.
Get tickets: https://www.mhfa.org.au/CMS/
Organiser, Host & MC: MHFA State Project Lead and Events Organiser – Kelly Sims
Speakers include:
Dr Georgina O’Donnell – Forensic and Clinic Psychologist
Prof. Kimberley Norris – Associate Head of Learning and Teaching in Psychology, UTAS
Selina Spowart – ACD Peer networks connector
Justin Abrahams – TAS Police & PCYC (strategic) manager
Don McCrae – Salvation Army
Esra Gunyel – Lived experience as a victim
Caroline Dean – Workplace bullying WH&S specialist (Local Gov)
The aim of this symposium is to discuss and explore what supports and services are available for offenders both inside and outside of prisons. as well as key questions eg;
- What support services are currently available for victims of crime,
- What can be done to improve upon these services and
- How else can mental health issues can be minimised in the prison system for the future.
TASMANIA WALK FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Sun 17 Oct 2021, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Max’s Infinity Loop, in Queens Domain, Hobart
Join us as we take steps from anywhere and everywhere!
Mental Health Foundation Australia’s Annual National Walk for Mental Health is being held on 17 October 2021, 10:30am in each state and territory capital of Australia.
Walk for Mental Health is an initiative of Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA), the oldest not-for-profit, non-government mental health organisation in Australia, serving the community since 1930.
Our walks are the perfect opportunity for the community to come together to raise awareness and advocate for mental health.
Let’s all take steps towards mental health, whether that is physically or virtually, or both, and let’s make each step count!
Register: https://www.
