Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) commences next week in Aotearoa from Monday 26 September to Sunday 2 October. This is endorsed by the World Federation for Mental Health and hosted in over 150 countries. The Mental Health Foundation has marked this week since 1993.
This year’s theme recognises the fact that over the past few years with a number of Covid pandemic lockdowns many people have grown distant from others and the places that are important to them.
The Mental Health Foundation is hoping Kiwis all around the world are inspired to reconnect, whether it’s through reaching out to someone they have lost contact with, visiting a place that holds significance to them, or getting outside and enjoying nature.
They have created a range of resources and activities as well as a guide for whānau (family), schools, workplaces and the community – so why not check out the Mental Health Awareness Week website.
Unfortunately, in this day and age a quarter of New Zealanders struggle with poor mental health in some form or another, that’s why it is so important to be looking out for people you know and love.
There are a variety of ways in which you can do this, for example; if someone you know is feeling sad or down, has confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate, has excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt. Is experiencing extreme mood changes or withdrawing from friends and activities, significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping, has an inability to cope with daily problems or stress, and or is having trouble understanding and relating to situations and to people.
Then they may need someone to check in on them and discuss it further on a regular basis. You may even want to organise a board games night, watch a movie or grab a cuppa with them over the coming weeks to show that you care and that you’re there for them. Potentially you may even assist them to seek professional and or medical advice.
Everyone goes through many ups and downs in life, that is completely normal and a part of being human.
However, if you’re worried you or someone you care about is not coping or needs some tautoko (support), there is help available!
As no one should have to go through a tough time alone.
Below is a list of some of the services available in New Zealand that offer support, information and help. All services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week unless otherwise specified.
If you or someone you care about are in immediate physical danger to themselves or others, call 111. For more information see mentalhealth.org.nz/ in-crisis.
Need to talk?
Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
Lifeline – 0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) or free text 4357 (HELP)
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email or online chat
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