October is Mental Health Month: Take the Next Step on Your Wellbeing Journey

October marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s theme, ‘Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey’ encourages people to recognise that wellbeing is a journey that looks different for everyone.  

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 reported experiencing a mental health concern in the past year. Despite this, 1 in 3 are unlikely to reach out for support or aren’t receiving the support they need, with cost being the biggest barrier to accessing services. 

Wentworth Healthcare, provider of the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, provides a range of free mental health services across the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Lithgow and Penrith areas through funding from the Federal Government. 

Wentworth Healthcare CEO, Lizz Reay, said that it's a common misconception that mental health services are only for those who have a mental health diagnosis, or who have more serious concerns. 

“Research shows that getting support early can reduce the seriousness and duration of a mental health concern. It can prevent things from getting worse and help you to feel better sooner.  Early support can teach you ways to cope, build resilience and prevent smaller problems from becoming bigger ones,” she said. 

“It can be difficult for some people to recognise that they may need support for their mental health. Then once they do consider getting help, it can often be challenging to know where to go, or what support is right for them,” said Ms Reay.  

Ms Reay explained that there are different services available in the region for different needs - from online tools, someone to talk to, more regular support, or specialised help. 

Read full release with locally available services in:
Blue Mountains
Hawkesbury
Lithgow
Penrith