Together we thrive

Mental Health Month is a time to reflect on how we can help each other thrive and support mental health and wellbeing.

This year’s Mental Health Month theme is ‘Together we Thrive’. When we come together through moments of care, kindness, conversation and connection, we can help each other thrive. 

Hear from four of our mental health workers share about how we can help each other thrive and support mental health and wellbeing.

As mental health workers dedicate themselves to caring for others, it is equally important for them to take care of their own wellbeing.

Sara, Clinical Nurse Manager at the Older Adult Mental Health Inpatient Unit, shares how small gestures like checking in with colleagues can make a difference.

“Sometimes we can forget to look after ourselves, because we’re so focused on work.

“But when somebody else takes the time to check in with you, it can be a reminder to pause and reflect on how we’re going.”

For those currently struggling with Mental Health, Sara encourages people to reach out for help.

“Reaching out for help can be difficult, but it is also one of the bravest steps you can take.

 You don’t need to have everything figured out all at once. Just take that first step towards getting the support you need and remember to take things one day at a time.”

“Supervision, collaboration, shared decision-making and shared wisdom are very important for not just surviving in this field, but also being able to thrive.”

Jason is Nurse Practitioner at the Adult Access Service.

The Adult Access Service is the entry point for people being referred with acute mental health concerns and is responsible for the initial telephone triage intake.

“It is important to be able to help people directly and gain some understanding of their situation.  To understand their predicament and provide some interventions towards their recovery, is rewarding.”

Changes in behaviour that seem to be problematic, persistent low mood accompanied by sleep disturbances, lack of motivation and energy, could be signs that someone is struggling with their mental health.

If you suspect your loved one is struggling, Jason encourages to check in on them.

“Ask open questions, something that doesn’t require a yes or no answer.

And if the person is really struggling, and if what they’re struggling with is a bit outside of their understanding, maybe guide them towards finding help.”

Anthony is a Nurse Unit Manager at the Adolescent Inpatient Psychiatric Unit and has been working within the mental health space for over 40 years.  

“One of the most rewarding things is getting feedback from families about how they’ve seen improvements in their child, and being able to reconnect with them.” 

Anthony believes that the theme ‘Together we Thrive’ is about being united and working together towards a common goal. By doing so, his team can provide better care for consumers. 

“Every single staff in this ward, including the cleaning team, nurses and allied health team, work together to make an environment where young people feel safe, secure and listened to.” 

To provide the best possible care for others, it is important that mental health workers also take the time to care for their own wellbeing. 

“As the manager I always try and support staff. 

I’m always willing to talk about how they’re going and how I can assist them. And also making sure we provide a safe work environment .” 

Clare is a Nurse Unit Manager at Inpatient Unit 1. As an advocate for compassionate care, she encourages mental health workers to see consumers as people first. 

“Listening and making sure that we understand what’s truly being said, is key.” 

Some conversations can be challenging for consumers to have, but they are often crucial in helping clinicians understand how best to best provide support.  

Clare shares that building strong rapport is key to creating a safe environment where consumers feel comfortable opening up. 

“Sometimes I get the best mental state assessment from just asking consumers about their everyday life.” 

“There’s importance in maintaining a professional line and a professional boundary, but also not being closed off to the conversations that we have as humans as well.” 

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to: 

• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636