Hi Everyone!

It is extremely important in this year of Covid-19 that we take care of each other and ‘check in’ on how they are ‘travelling’, especially mentally. Mental health problems are often not evident until they reach crisis point. It is often called the ‘Hidden Pandemic’. SO I ENCOURAGE YOU TO APPROACH YOUR FAMILY (ADULTS & CHILDREN), RELATIVES, FRIENDS, NEIGHBOURS, ETC AND ASK ‘RU OK’?

IF YOU ARE HAVING DIFFICULTIES WITH YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE YOU TRUST AND/OR TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP. THERE IS AN OLD SAYING, ‘A PROBLEM SHARED, IS A PROBLEM HALVED’.

I believe that many animals and young children are very perceptive when knowing how we feel.

Five tips for responding to someone who is doing it tough

A simple, ‘I’m sorry to hear that’ is a good response. You might follow this up with, ‘would you like to talk about it?’ to open up the conversation if the time and situation is appropriate. If not, agree on a more suitable time to talk.
Sometimes it can help to mention any changes you’ve seen that have caused concern. For example, if someone seems more withdrawn than normal (which can be a symptom of depression) you could say ‘I’ve noticed that you’ve not wanted to come out much lately. Is there something worrying you?’
There is great comfort to be given by simply listening and caring. There are often too few opportunities in our busy lives for connections based on these simple kindnesses. Sometimes, too, people find it easier to talk when doing something like going for a walk, rather than sitting across a table from someone.
Focus on asking questions rather than trying to provide answers. Giving people a chance to share their experiences and voice their concerns without judgement is of great benefit. It helps people to feel less alone and more hopeful. Remember that responsibility for finding solutions does not lie with you. The best solutions are generally reached by the person themselves.
Check whether they are connected to professional support.

Rather than an answer of 'no', it is possible for the person you care about to respond with a 'yeah I'm okay'. If you’re not convinced, let them know that you are always available should they want to talk. It's worth sending them an email or text a few hours later reiterating your support. By keeping the door open you will make it easier for them to connect and open up in the future.

Remember a conversation could change a life and the simple gesture of compassion can have a profound effect on someone who is going through tough times.

Sometimes it’s hard to express your feelings to the people around you. Not because you’re afraid of what they’ll say, but because our culture doesn’t seem to be very keen on being honest about their pains. The reality is that way too many people are putting on a facade of perfection in order to keep people from knowing how they are truly hurting. It’s okay to admit that you’re hurting, broken or even confused about your current spot in life. It’s okay

1. IT’S OKAY TO CRY. There is nothing wrong with crying and letting out a few tears. Crying can sometimes be the relief you need to move on and regroup. Showing emotion is good for the soul, and crying has been known to help regulate depression, anxiety and even stress.

2. IT’S OKAY TO GET FRUSTRATED. No one has the answers to everything, and even the smartest of people in the world find themselves frustrated sometimes. It’s ok to not know the answer, solution, or reason for things that have taken place. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s wrong to get frustrated. Sometimes frustration is the breeding ground of change.

3. IT’S OKAY TO GET STRESSED. Let’s face it, stress is unavoidable. I’m not saying it’s going to consume your entire life, but stress is one of those things that all of us will eventually encounter in one way or another. When you come into areas of your life that are considered stressful, realize that it’s only going to last as long as you allow it to. Stress is unavoidable, but allowing it to control your life is not. It’s ok to be stressed sometimes, just don’t let stress become who you are.

4. IT’S OKAY TO NOT UNDERSTAND. Not everything is going to have an answer. There are circumstances and events in your life that you aren’t going to understand, but you have to realize that it’s ok to not know all the answers. There is humility in saying “I don’t know.” And frankly, sometimes admitting that you don’t know is the first step in finding peace and comfort in your situation.

For more details see https://www.ruok.org.au/

Need help? – Beyond Blue - 13 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800 https://kidshelpline.com.au/

Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - https://www.lifeline.org.au

MAKE EVERY DAY ‘R U OK? DAY

Robyn Mulholland (School Chaplain – robyn.mulholland@education.vic.gov.au)

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