Stigma around mental illness due to misunderstanding or prejudice remains an issue in Australia. The reality is the vast majority of people affected by mental illness are able to lead independent and contributing lives in the community, with the right treatment and support. With one in five Australians affected, they form part of our close circles of family, friends and colleagues, and interact with us in our communities every day. At 10:10am staff from our three offices across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales, were encouraged to stop and take a moment to have an open conversation about Mental Health over morning tea, in recognition of World Mental Health Day. This year’s campaign ‘Do You See What I See?’ challenges perceptions about mental illness in Australia while encouraging everyone to look at mental health in a more positive light, in an effort to reduce stigma and make way for more people to seek the help and support they deserve. Rural Lifestyle Options Australia are proud to support the health and well being of our staff through our Employee Assistance Program and partnership with RAW Mind Coach. If you or someone you care for is in need of immediate assistance, you can contact the below list of National 24/7 Crisis Counselling Services.
Lifeline
13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service
1300 659 467
Beyond Blue
1300 224 636
MensLine Australia
1300 78 99 78
Kids Helpline
1800 551 800 (27/7 crisis support)
headspace
1800 650 890
www.headspace.org.au (direct clinical services)
Butterfly Foundation National Helpline
1800 334 673
Open Arms – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service
1800 011 046
