It’s World Mental Health Day 2023. This year, the theme ‘Mental health is a universal human right’ promotes the important message that everyone has the right to be protected from mental health risks, access good quality support and to be included in the community. As we’re an organisation driven by hope and committed to caring without judgement, this is a message Windana fully supports! One of our Senior Psychologists has three quick tips we’re sharing today on how we can all practice mental health self-care and get support when we need it.

1. Remember to rest
   Our day-to-day lives can be busy and tiring, but you don’t need to always push to keep going at your usual pace. Instead, listen to your body and practice self-care, rest, eat well and drink water. This can be a first step in assisting your mental health.
2. Find your way to unwind
   If you’re experiencing anxiety or stress, consider practicing different ways to relax such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, exercise, self-care or talking to a trusted support. Interested in trying a yoga routine? Check out Windana’s ‘Rest to Reflect’ routine you can try at home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3agGApKVwBk. If singing or dancing is more your thing, give that a go!
3. Ask for help
   Always remember you have the right to reach out to a professional for support. Trained professionals are available to help! There are many benefits to seeing a therapist (such as a counsellor or psychologist) for ongoing care. They’ll get to know you and can work with you on areas where you want to make positive changes. To see what services are available and make a plan for seeing a professional, talk to your doctor. It’s also so important to remember that there are plenty of services you can contact to talk to someone whenever you need – right around the clock! LifeLine offers 24-hour support on 13 11 14. You can also access 24-hour alcohol and other drug support and counselling from DirectLine on 1800 888 236. For a bigger list of services, check out the list below.

More information

Below are some 24-hour hotlines and services you can reach out to, keep in mind or share with a friend.

13 YARN
National crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Call: 13 92 76
www.13yarn.org.au

Lifeline
Crisis support and suicide prevention services, so that nobody has to face their darkest moments alone.
Call: 13 11 14
Text: 0477 131 114
www.lifeline.org.au

DirectLine
Counselling, information and referral service for alcohol or drug-related issues.
Call: 1800 88 8236
www.directline.org.au

BeyondBlue
Information and support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention for everyone in Australia.
Call: 1300 22 4636
www.beyondblue.org.au

Kids Helpline
Telephone counselling service for people aged between 5 and 25.
Call: 1800 55 1800
www.kidshelpline.com.au

Family Drug Support
Support for people affected by a family member’s drug or alcohol use.
Call: 1300 36 8186
www.fds.org.au

SHARC Family Drug & Gambling Helpline
Providing practical help, information and support to families and friends affected by someone’s drinking, drug use or gambling.
Call: 1300 60 0068

Here are some more stories from Windana about mental health.

• R U OK? Day – Tips for checking in with ourselves and others
• Co-occurring conditions explained
• Getting prepared to ask: “R U OK?”
• Supporting mental health during withdrawal