WARNING: The following article may be distressing for some.
If you need support, contact
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
- Lifeline 13 11 14
All available for support 24/7
October is Mental Health Month in NSW.
It couldn’t come too soon for some on the Central Coast.
Around 2500 Australians take their own lives each year- double the national road toll. It is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44.
Since 2002 the Coast has been home to higher rates of suicide than the rest of the state overall.
In any given year, Lifeline Hunter Central Coast provides support to over 25,000 people in times of crisis, with about 5000 having suicidal thoughts.
But recent figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in its Causes of Death Australia, 2016 showed a reduction in rates of across most age groups – including “a moderate reduction” for males in the “high risk” age groups of 35-49 years.
However, there were “modest increases” in other age groups, like males 15-24 years and females 20-34 years.
Mental illness such as major depression, psychotic illnesses and eating disorders are often associated with a higher risk of suicide.
Mental health problems have a profound impact on the lives of many Australians and is estimated by the ABS to cost the country $20 billion per year.
Nearly 1 in 4 teenagers meet the criteria for probable mental illness, and suicide rates in youths are at their highest level in 10 years.
The aim of Mental Health Month is to encourage everyone to think about our own mental health and wellbeing. It also shines a light on the importance of mental health in our everyday lives, and encourages us to seek help when needed.
Just like being physically healthy, we need to maintain a healthy mind to prevent mental illness and other issues that can make daily living a struggle and it also allows for a positive lifestyle overall.
There are a number of events across the Coast throughout October to help Coasties brush up on our Mental Health first aid…
Until 31 October TUMBI UMBI
Walk with Me – A Photographic Exhibition, focuses on community capacity building and improving the health, well-being and quality of life for local Central Coast residents, particularly those experiencing mental health issues, disadvantage, and social isolation. The photographs will be displayed at Mingara Recreation Club during October over Mental Health Month to highlight mental health, enable community discussions, reduce stigma, and create greater awareness and understanding towards mental health within our community.
13 – 22 October EAST GOSFORD
In 2000, the inaugural Mental Health Week Art Exhibition was held at the Gosford Regional Gallery & Arts Centre. It has now become an annual event to celebrate Mental Health Month on the Central Coast. Mental Health – Art Works! No entry cost.
18 October, 10am-12pm
Mental Health Month Coffee Morning, at Peninsula Women’s Health Centre.
25 October, 12.30-2.30pm
Feeling Good with Yoga – an easy yoga and relaxation session each week for 6 weeks, followed by a short workshop about building resilience of body and mind and setting wellness goals.
26 October, 10am-12.30pmBoundaries and Assertiveness
A 6 session group designed to support women to develop healthier boundaries and improving communication and assertiveness, to help improve relationships- with yourself, partners, friends and family.
All these sessions at the Peninsula Women’s Health Centre are free, but a $5 donation would help them continue their wellbeing work in the community.
31 October, 9.30am-1pm THE ENTRANCE
Central Coast Disability Network and Specialist Mental Health Services for Older People have a Wellbeing Forum at The Entrance Leagues Club.
Hear from guest speakers, visit information stalls, enjoy a free lunch, free health check-ups and hand massages, along with a Tai Chi and Yoga session plus a tour of the Bateau Bay Men’s Shed.
RSVPs are essential, click here for more
The Central Coast is also part of Australia’s largest ever suicide prevention trial. The Black Dog Institute is asking Coasties to take part in a research study to see whether a community-wide, integrated suicide prevention program, called LifeSpan, can change the knowledge behaviours, attitudes and risk of suicide across the Coast.
The study is being conducted by the Black Dog Institute, supported by a research grant from the Ramsay Foundation.
It’s after participants aged 18 years or older, who can give about 15-20 of their time. If you would like to be involved, click the pic above.
