As we have said many times, and will continue to say, Athenies Angels is here to help you in your struggles and your search for wellbeing. We strive to support you on your journey to wellness by answering your questions, increasing your knowledge and providing you a safe place to share and discuss your concerns.
Our vision is to:
- Promote mental wellbeing
- Eradicate stigmas and judgements associated with mental illness
- Reduce the number of suicides among young people
If you or anyone you know needs skills and tools to deal with life struggles, please contact us. More information is available on our website at www.atheniesangels.org.au.
Help From the Community of Psychiatrists
More than 500 Australian psychiatrists, led by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists have reached out to the Australian Health Minister expressing their concerns about the need for more and better access to mental health care. We are supporting this initiative as this group continues to work on reforms and better access and affordability for much needed health care.
It’s Alright to Cry
A study commissioned by the Australian government in 2020 (Ten to Men) found up to 25% of men experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime and 15% experience a disorder in any 12 month period. Despite that only a quarter said they would seek help from a mental health professional. Three quarters of all deaths by suicide are men, three times the rate for women. Suicide is the leading cause of death for men between the ages of 15 to 45. While this is truly crisis level statistics, we can find some comfort in the growing support for mental wellness.
A great example is Bear Grylls, known for his TV series Man vs. Wild and Running Wild with Bear Grylls on the National Geographic channel. Bear is a legend in outdoor agility and performance – he climbed to the summit of Mt Everest at the age of 23. His current challenge is to help people with their health issues and is a stellar example of a strong and healthy individual who knows how to cry, to ask for help and to promote wellness for the community at large.
FAQs
Learn the Language – below is an introduction to some of the terminology used in the area of mental health and mental illness.
Question: ADHD – what does that mean?
Answer: ADHD is short for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is characterized by excessive impulsivity and hyperactivity It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It is known to contribute to low self esteem, troubled relationships and difficulty at school or work.
Question: Can ADHD be treated?
Answer: It may be diagnosed in childhood or adulthood. Many children outgrow it but about 60% still have it as adults. While there is no cure,, there are treatment plans available to minimize its impact on living a productive and happy life. These plans are individually created with the help of a medical professional and might include medicine, therapy, increasing ones knowledge about the condition and support from friends and family.
Question: What is OCD?
Answer: OCD is Obsessive Compulsive Disordr is an anxiety disorder. It is characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (such as fear of germs or fear of harming others) or obsessions that lead to compulsive behaviors. An extreme level of OCD might confine someone and make them housebound. It is treatable with medical support and might include medications, therapy and support group participation.
Remember – Mental Health is a journey. And a priority.
Music as Inspiration
Lady Gaga is a global music and film star. She is also an avid mental health advocate.
These lyrics demonstrate her commitment and the power of song:
Hold my hand everything will be ok
I heard from the heavens that clouds have been gray
Pull me close, wrap me in your aching arms
I see that you’re hurtin, why’d you take so long
To tell me you need me?
I’ll ride in this life with you
I won’t let go til the end
So cry
But don’t let go of my hand
Promise me, just hold my hand
That fear that’s inside you will lift
Ongoing Events – Please Join Us!
We successfully launched Level 2 of our Emotional Resiliency Building in July and would be delighted to welcome you to our Monday evening sessions under the care and leadership of a skilled health care professional.
Beginning on August 7 and meeting every Wednesday through October 23, we are excited to share Empowerment Bookshelf – a unique space where literature meets self-care and personal growth.
This new program will focus on books that inspire, educate and empower mental well being. Each week we will carefully select excerpts from books offering valuable insights, practical tools, and uplifting stories to help you on your journey. We will also use talking cards as games to further engage you and lighten the mood. We are looking forward to having fun, talking, reflecting, and growing towards a more balanced life. PLEASE JOIN US!
You can register via the contact page at www.atheniesangels.org.au.
As always, we strongly encourage you to seek help for yourself and your loved ones as soon as possible. Athenie’s Angels is here to support you in your struggles on your journey to embrace mental wellbeing. More information is available on our website at www.atheniesangels.org.au.
Reach out!
We are a space of hope!
Writer Researcher
Denise Gillen