October 10, 2023
In a world that often prioritises physical health, Mental Health Week serves as a crucial reminder to focus on our emotional well-being. Mental health is an essential component of our overall wellness, and it deserves just as much attention and care as our physical health. Before diving into ways to celebrate Mental Health Week, it’s important to understand what mental health truly encompasses.
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influencing our ability to handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
At Open Hands Community Care, we are always taking steps to maintain not only our physical health, but ensuring to always prioritise our mental health. We do this by checking in with our colleagues on a daily basis and encouraging open communication. We also ensure we are constantly paying attention to changes in behaviour, mood, or work performance that might indicate a colleague is struggling with mental health issues and offer support or professional help.
At OHCC, we also recognise the stigma associated with mental health issues. Mental health has long been shrouded in stigma, preventing countless individuals from seeking the help they need. The fear of judgment, discrimination, and misunderstanding often hinders people from reaching out for support. As a multilingual and CALD organisation we recognise the importance of addressing mental health stigma and provide compassionate care to those in need.
As part of our organisational values, we are dedicated to eradicating mental health stigma and providing comprehensive support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges through our numerous support services.
There are many ways to recognise and care for mental health. It’s important to firstly educate and create as much awareness as possible.
Mental Health Supports, Advocacy & Advisory Services at Open Hands
At Open Hands Community Care we are always actively promoting education and awareness surrounding mental health issues. It’s also recommended to seek support groups and as an organisation we can assist in bridging that gap linking individuals with support group services.
As a CALD organisation, we take a culturally sensitive approach to care. We understand that different communities may experience mental health stigma differently and tailor our services accordingly. In addition as an organisation we actively advocates for mental health reform and policies that protect the rights and well-being of those living with mental health conditions.
It is normal for families and individuals to experience a range of reactions to unexpected events. Every day we see people needing someone to lean on. Whether it’s someone battling with mental illness, facing addictions, struggling with finances, young people trying to find their way, or communities reeling from disaster, we’ll walk alongside you, to identify impacting gaps, assisting people identify social barriers. Our Psychosocial Recovery Coaches, Counsellors & Pastoral Care Team help participants on their individual journey to recovery and wellness, offering a listening ear, strategies to understand feelings, and ways to build resilience and emotional wellbeing. Contact us today, to find out how we can help!
5 Self-Care Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Start each day with a mindfulness practice or meditation to ground yourself.
- Prioritise adequate sleep, nutrition, and regular physical activity, as they greatly impact your mental well-being.
- Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading, art, music, or spending time in nature.
- Connect with Others.
- Reach out to friends and family for open and honest conversations about mental health.
- Attend virtual or in-person connect groups / support groups to connect with others who may be experiencing similar challenges.
- Actively listen to others and offer your support when needed.
- Educate Yourself.
- Learn more about mental health conditions and how to recognise the signs in yourself and others.
- Challenge myths and misconceptions surrounding mental health.
- Promote mental health literacy in your community.
- Reduce the Stigma.
- Share your own mental health experiences if you feel comfortable, as this can help reduce stigma.
- Use social media and other platforms to spread awareness and promote acceptance.
- Encourage open dialogue about mental health in your workplace or school.
- Seek Professional Help.
- If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional.
- Mental Health Week can be an excellent time to start therapy or counseling if you’ve been considering it.
At Open Hands were here for you! Contact us today, to find out how we can help!