There has been incredible progress on vaccination and other physical aspects of the pandemic. But the stress, isolation, and anxiety suffered by people around the world have led some of them to mental disorders, which have been overlooked. The statistics on mental health in Australia suggest that 46% of people aged 16-85 had experienced a mental disorder during their lifetime. Lack of awareness could lead to untreated mental disorders, poorer performance at work and school, suicidal tendencies, and inability to have a good social life. But, how could we work against the stigma attached to mental health? Start by giving the mentally affected, respect and acceptance. This will help them cope with their condition. Being aware of mental health and advocating for them will provide them the same kind of rights and opportunities as others. But the most important part is to help them reach out to medical support.
Disability support service providers, like Aastha Community Service (ACS) – a registered NDIS Mental Health Support Provider in Western Australia, could direct them to the right mental health provider who suits their needs. These could be psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, or professional counselors. They also provide psychosocial support recovery service, working together with the individuals, their families, and carers to provide community-based support to achieve their recovery goals. Other services include suicide prevention helplines, psychological therapies, and support for their overall health and wellbeing. In addition, the National Psychosocial Support (NPS) could help avail mental health and wellness services in Perth, Joondalup, Mirrabooka, Cottesloe, Fremantle, Victoria Park, Canning vale, Maddington or anywhere in Western Australia, even if the person is not eligible for NDIS. We might not have a vaccine for mental illness, but, with all these support systems around, it is just a matter of awareness, empathy, and motivation to help the mentally affected lead a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.