But for people, particularly young people, who have been quietly struggling, a simple, “Hey, you doing okay?” could create that safe space and be the one hand they hold on to.
That’s the message headspace Shepparton is wanting to carry through Mental Health Awareness Month this October.
“Every month is mental health month for us,” community awareness co-ordinator Naynika Bagrecha said.
“October in general is really important where all other organisations also acknowledge the month and realise that this is something that we need to keep supporting and talking about.”
This year’s headspace Day theme, ‘do nothing*’, encourages young people to pause and take a break.
Because the need for mental health services is clear, and growing.
Since 2009, loneliness rates among 15- to 24-year-olds have been climbing, reversing the perception that older people are among those loneliest.
The rising cost of living and a tough job market are among the issues adding to the pressures.
And that pressure is knocking on headspace Shepparton’s door.
The early intervention service supports people aged 12 to 25 and most commonly experiencing depression, anxiety and low mood, with higher cases referred to other appropriate services.
Acting centre manager Bridie Wright says while we’re fortunate to live in a wonderful regional community, access to support still remains limited.
“Young people in the Goulburn Valley can face additional challenges when accessing support, including longer travel distances, limited public transport, workforce shortages and fewer local specialists,” Ms Wright said.
“This is why services like headspace are so important in regional communities.”
But as the demand grows, concerns follow, with more and more children, some as young as 10, presenting.
“It’s such a rare thing to be able to access a free service,” Ms Bagrecha said.
New Mental Health Australia research shows why connection matters.
Nearly two-thirds of Australians believe people are becoming more disconnected from one another, and 65 per cent say disconnection can harm their mental health.
However, 57 per cent say feeling part of something bigger than themselves helps them cope in stressful times.
On Saturday, October 3, headspace Shepparton will host a sausage sizzle at Bunnings in Shepparton from 9am to 4pm.
All funds raised from the event will support workshops and programs for the local First Nations community.
But as we enter Mental Health Awareness Month and help keep these conversations visible, Ms Wright’s message is simple.
“You don’t have to wait until things become overwhelming to reach out for support,” she said.
“Its okay to ask for help early, and it’s also okay to slow down.”
headspace Shepparton is open Monday 8.30am to 8pm and Tuesday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.
headspace is not an emergency service. In an emergency, call 000.
Other supports include GVAMHS Mental Health triage on 1300 369 005, Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7), Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, and eheadspace on 1800 650 890 (3pm to 10pm daily).
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