It is completely normal to feel unwell during challenging times like these. On average, 1 in 5 people (20%) will experience a mental health issue every year. Mental health problems rank as the third most significant health issue in Australia, following heart disease and cancer. While this may be distressing, it’s important to remember that you are not alone, and support is available. When someone asks, "Are you okay?" it's crucial to know how to respond if they say they're not—your words could make a significant impact. To continue the conversation, you might say things like, "What's been happening?" or "How long have you felt this way?" Listen with an open mind and ask how you can help. Ensure that when you ask, you are clear about what is appropriate, that you have time to talk, and that there is a comfortable place for the conversation. If you are feeling well and can support someone practically or emotionally, here are some helpful actions you can take to improve both your mental health and that of others. Entering a period of social distancing, self-isolation, or quarantine can feel daunting and may contribute to feelings of helplessness and fear. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate through this period.

It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed during challenging times. On average, 1 in 5 people (or 20%) will experience a mental health issue each year. Mental health problems are the third most significant health issue in Australia, after heart disease and cancer. While this can be distressing, remember that you are not alone and that support is available. When you ask someone, "Are you OK?" it’s important to know how to respond if they say they're not. This can make a meaningful difference in their life. To continue the conversation, you might ask questions like, "What's been happening?" or "How long have you been feeling this way?" It's important to listen with an open mind and find out how you can help. Make sure that when you ask, you are clear about your availability and that you have a comfortable place to talk.

If you’re feeling well and able to support someone, practically or emotionally, here are some things you can do to improve your mental health and that of others. Entering a period of social distancing, self-isolation, or quarantine may feel daunting or overwhelming and can contribute to feelings of helplessness and fear. So here are some things that may help you through this period.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which every individual realises their own potential, can cope with the everyday stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully and can make a contribution to their community’.

Mental illness can affect anyone, of any age and background. However, with support, most people can and do recover. Achieving and maintaining good mental health and well-being is essential for everyone.