This month is Mental Health Month, a national event which aims to improve community awareness and interest in mental health and wellbeing.
The theme for 2024 is “it’s time to talk about mental health” and we’ve asked our Mental Health and Wellbeing teams to talk about breaking down stigma, seeking support and the importance of early intervention.
Provisional Psychologist Alicia Follett from our Psychology Clinic explores the turmoil of grief and change – both positive and negative.
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Grief is not a sign of weakness – it is a natural emotional response to loss. This loss doesn’t have to involve death but can arise from any significant change in your life circumstances.
While negative feelings during periods of adjustment after a “bad” change — such as job loss or bereavement — are generally accepted, many people overlook the fact that grief can also occur after positive changes. For instance, the birth of a child, a job promotion, acceptance into university or retirement can all evoke complex emotions.
As a society, we often undervalue the emotional turmoil that can accompany these positive, even eagerly anticipated, changes.
Phrases like “What reason do I/you have to be upset?” reflect a cultural belief that experiencing discomfort during such transitions is unusual or inappropriate.
This perception can lead individuals to feel isolated from their friends, family, and social supports — the very resources that are essential for maintaining mental health. It may also create barriers to seeking professional help when needed.
While mental health is influenced by our environment, it is not always a perfect reflection of it. Just as some people can endure significant negative challenges with minimal impact on their well-being, others may need support during times of major change.
Support can come from services like Gateway Health but it can also be found informally through compassionate listening from friends and family. Practicing self-compassion and encouraging open dialogue can help foster a supportive environment for everyone experiencing change.
Gateway Health offers professional and confidential counselling and mental health services provided in safe, supportive and non-threatening environments across a range of services. Find out more at https://gatewayhealth.org.au/services/counselling-mental-health/
