This is our sixth newsletter and we are so pleased to continue to share thoughts, concerns, and ideas with you. Athenies Angels is committed to help you in your struggles and your search for knowledge to support your wellbeing and the wellbeing of your loved ones. We hope you think of Athenies Angels as 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.
Looking for Gold and Finding it in a Life Well Lived
In our first newsletter we talked about an Australian athlete, Harry Garside, who was preparing to compete in the 2024 Olympics. He is an accomplished boxer who had suffered from mental health issues but instead of letting them hold them back, he fought his way through with the help of family, friends, the medical community and his boxing community. Well he made it to the Olympics but he did not win the Gold. But he is in no way a loser. We look forward to hearing more about him as he embraces this setback and encourages himself to continue being a prize winning person. He has recently said, “We’re Olympic athletes. We want the best, we want gold medals, but no result ever actually changes your self-worth or the respect you can have for yourself.”
In addition to being an athlete, Harry is an author. Just this month he published The Good Fight with Simon and Schuster. He says it is not a memoir but rather a story of his ongoing journey and an attempt “to challenge your notion of what it means to be a man in this modern era.” We are so proud of you Harry!
FAQs – Learn the Language
Below is some of the terminology used in the area of mental health and mental illness. We include it here to educate you and give you the language that can help remove the stigma surrounding mental illness. In June we talked about what mental illness is and focused on panic attacks. In July we addressed ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Here is another chapter:
Question: What is bipolar disorder?
Answer: Bipolar disorder is a chronic (long-term) condition. It involves intense mood changes that disrupt everyday life — from extreme highs to extreme lows. It affects 1 in 50 Australians each year. Bipolar disorder often develops for the first time during teenage years or early adulthood. It tends to affect more females than males. It is sometimes known as manic depression.
Question: What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder?
Answer: A person with bipolar disorder goes through mood changes that range between manic and depressive episodes.
During a manic phase, symptoms may include:
- feeling high, very happy or irritable
- inflated self-esteem or grandiose ideas
- increased energy, activity and creativity, along with a reduced need to sleep
- racing thoughts and speech (talking loudly or over people, jumping from topic to topic)
- being very easily distracted by any stimuli (such as noises or other people)
- impulsive or risky behaviours with spending, business or sexual activity
- unrealistic plans, delusions or hallucinations
During a depressive phase, symptoms may include:
- low mood
- lack of motivation
- a loss of interest in usual leisure activities or hobbies
- changes in sleep patterns
- difficulty concentrating
- withdrawing from social contact and activities
- feelings of worthlessness or guilt, which may include suicidal thoughts
Question: Can bipolar disorder be treated?
Answer: There’s no guaranteed way to prevent someone from developing bipolar disorder. But many people manage it successfully with the right treatment and support. A successful strategy may include medicines, therapy and other self-help strategies.
Remember – Mental Health is a journey. And a priority.
Poetry as Inspiration
Banjo Patterson is known for capturing the Australian spirit in his poetry. One of his best known poems, “The Man from Snowy River” is a thrilling narrative that describes a dramatic chase in a challenging terrain and the skepticism of experienced riders. It has highlighted determination, and the triumph of the underdog for over a century.
However, not as well known is a love poem that speaks to the agelessness and power of love and can be inspiration to us as we struggle in our pursuit of wellness.
Wilt thou love me, sweet, when my hair is grey
And my cheeks shall have lost their hue?
When the charms of youth shall have passed away,
Will your love as of old prove true?
For the looks may change, and the heart may range,
And the love be no longer fond;
Wilt thou love with truth in the years of youth
And away to the years beyond?
Oh, I love you, sweet, for your locks of brown
And the blush on your cheek that lies —
But I love you most for the kindly heart
That I see in your sweet blue eyes.
For the eyes are signs of the soul within,
Of the heart that is leal and true,
And mine own sweetheart, I shall love you still,
Just as long as your eyes are blue.
Ongoing Events – Please Join Us!
Emotional Resiliency Building Level 2 is in full swing and we would love to have you join us at our Monday evening sessions under the care and leadership of a skilled health care professional.
In August we launched Empowerment Bookshelf (also known as Chit Chat Club). We meet on Google Meet every Wednesday from now until October 23. This a unique space where literature meets self-care and community.ing, reflecting, and growing towards a more balanced life. PLEASE JOIN US!
You can register via the contact page on our webiste.
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.
Reach out!
We are a space of hope!
Writer Researcher
Denise Gillen