Beyond Blue works to raise awareness of depression, anxiety and suicide prevention, reduce the stigma surrounding these issues and to encourage people to seek support when they need it.
As the year draws to a close, there is a sense of heaviness in the community.
At Beyond Blue we’re hearing there’s a lot of fatigue, fear and frustration, as people grapple with distressing geopolitical conflicts, the unrelenting impact of climate change, and growing cost of living pressures.
Last December, there was a 41% increase in demand for Beyond Blue’s Support Service, compared to 2022’s monthly average. We are expecting a similar increase, if not more, this year. If you’re feeling a sense of instability, exhaustion, or grief, there are some small steps you can take to look after your mental health when things feel overwhelming.
In the face of all that the world is grappling with right now, a list of coping tips may seem inadequate – a bit like bracing for a tsunami by recommending the best floaties. But the reality is, when we take care of the basics, the bigger stuff is easier to manage. So here are some things you can do to help stay afloat.
Firstly, allow yourself to feel. Make space for a wide range of thoughts and emotions. Even the unpleasant ones. Remind yourself that feeling this way is part of my humanity – our shared humanity.
Ground yourself against the big rocks of your life. Your family. Friends. Pets. Work. Home. Find your rocks and let them anchor you.
Put boundaries around how much news you watch, and how often you discuss distressing events. It’s not switching off completely, just allowing yourself time to recharge.
And actively look for what’s going well in the world, and in your life. Maybe its connecting with nature or being creative. Tune into how gratitude and the simplest things can bring some joy or a sense of ease.
Finally, turning your emotional energy into positive action by trying to make a difference in your own small patch of the world.
Feeling overwhelmed is a natural response to these times. But remember it’s never too early to seek support.
Beyond Blue’s mental health professionals are here for you, no matter the issue. Big or small.
The sooner you chat to someone, the more quickly you’ll feel like yourself again.
Beyond Blue Support Service: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au/getsupport
