The impact of COVID-19 on individuals and communities makes Mental Health Awareness Week (running September 21-17) more important than ever this year, Southern District Health Board (SDHB) health promotion advisor David Pirie says.

Health professionals at the SDHB and partner organisations throughout the Southern district are focusing on supporting and amplifying the ‘Getting Through Together’ messages being promoted this week.

“The focus of Mental Health Awareness Week this year is Reimagine Wellbeing Together – He Tirohanga Anamata. The aim is to reassure people they are not alone, help is there for them, and that there is free help and support available,” David said.

He said Mental Health Awareness Week was a good opportunity for people to build on the things they have been doing to look after themselves and to support each other.

“The Getting Through Together campaign is about reminding ourselves that there are simple things we can all do to look after ourselves and others. Be kind to one another, stick to routines if you can, do more of the things that give your life value and meaning, like connecting with nature, being creative, listening to music or getting lost in a good book. Calm your body and mind, focus on your breathing and give yourself downtime. We all need downtime.”

SDHB director for allied health, mental health and addictions, and chair of the Central-Lakes Wellbeing Recovery Group Adell Cox echoed David’s message, saying while mental health resources had been stretched in the COVID-19 environment, there was still help available.

“Our message is, if you need help, please reach out. You are not alone and there are services there to support you.” 

Visit the SDHB website ‘mental health and addictions’ page for a variety of ways to get help, which includes access to mental health apps, an e-therapy course, an online toolkit, and advice on how to receive in-person assistance.

SDHB, Otago Mental Health Support Trust, MSD and Weave Together have also sponsored a series of podcasts entitled Living Well, in which local people share their ideas about practical everyday things people can do to support their wellbeing and build connections with others.

A Ministry of Health initiative called Changing Minds is also offering a wide variety of online wellbeing classes this week, from yoga to journaling and meditating.

For even more tools, information and advice, visit the Mental Health Awareness Week website here.

IMAGE: Supplied