NEWS FOCUS RELATED CONTENT
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
WIMMERA support services want people to know there is no wrong door when it comes to seeking help.
headspace Horsham provides counselling and support to people aged between 12 and 25, helping them deal with a range of issues including relationships, drugs and alcohol, and mental health.
Centre manager Liz Rowe said it was important for people to talk openly and honestly if they were worried about a friend or family member.
“Let them know you are concerned and reassure them that you will be there for them,” she said.
“Some of the signs to look out for, that suggests someone might be struggling with their mental health include changes in appetite or sleeping patterns; being easily irritated or angry for no reason; their work or study performance might not be as good as it once was; or simply not enjoying some of the activities they would normally enjoy.”
Grampians Community Health chief executive Greg Little said there was no judgement from any agencies people might call or seek out.
“Agencies such as ours, Uniting Wimmera, headspace and local hospitals, health services and GPs work well together,” she said.
“There is no wrong door. In fact we’d rather someone engage with anyone than not at all. There is definitely no stigma with contacting any of these agencies or making a free call to a helpline.”
Crisis services operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week include: Lifeline on 13 11 14; Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 46; Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800; MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78; and beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.
National support services include: SANE Australia Helpline on 1800 187 263; headspace on 1800 650 890; QLife line on 1800 184 527; and the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service on 1800 011 046.