Canberra Head to Health

Today marks the first day of the Bullying No Way: National week of action.

Previously known as the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence, Bullying No Way Week, from 12 to 16 August 2024, is Australia’s key bullying prevention initiative and connects schools and communities to find workable solutions to prevent bullying 🤝

The theme for 2024 is 'Everyone belongs'. When we all feel like we belong, bullying struggles to find a place. It's about embracing who we are, respecting everyone's differences and standing up together against unkindness 💜

If you would like to learn more about this amazing cause visit bullyingnoway.gov.au and remember to stand up against bulling and violence.

Come see us at the ANU and UC Psychology Careers Fair!

This Friday 2 August, the Think Mental Health team will be heading across to the ANU and UC Psychology Careers Fair, where we can connect with young people looking to pursue a career in the field of psychology. We are really excited to meet passionate students and share how they can get involved with Think Mental Health and the wider psychology industry.

Hosted on Campus at ANU from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, be sure to pop by and say hi.

Mindfulness is an extremely valuable tool that can help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. There are several ways in which you can practice mindfulness in your day-to-day life, here are some examples:

🌟Start your day with a mindful practice, whether it's meditation, deep breathing, or taking a bit of time to sit and enjoy your morning tea or coffee.

🌟Stay present in the moment. Focus on what you're doing right now, rather than worrying about the past or future.

🌟Take breaks throughout the day to check in with yourself. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths.

🌟 Enjoy the fresh outdoor air. Try going for a small walk, or find a nice spot to sit and take in the world around you.

If you would like to find out more about how we can help support you, visit our website - canberraheadtohealth.com.au

Today marks the start of Birth Trauma Awareness Week which runs from 15 to 21 July.

Birth Trauma Awareness Week 2024 is an important initiative that aims to raise awareness about birth trauma and provide support for those who have experienced it. Birth-related trauma can be physical or psychological or a combination of both.

You can learn more about Birth Trauma Awareness Week through .org.au And if you or someone you know is experiencing difficult times and would like to see what kinds of supports are available, please reach out to Head to Health.

A notice to our community:

From the start of July 2024, the Centre will be closed to walk-ins on Wednesdays between the hours of 8:30am and 11:30am for staff development/training.

All scheduled appointments will proceed as normal.

Please note all other services and including the phone service will still operate as normal during this time.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team via [email protected] or give us a call at 1800 595 212.

These colder winter months can often bring with them a sense of isolation, making it feel harder to reach out for support. But we are here for you.

It's during these times that self-care becomes even more crucial. With less physical activity and more time spent indoors, the need for mental health support might increase.

Head to Health is here to help support you year-round. Learn more about our services via our website - canberraheadtohealth.com.au

Today marks the first day of NAIDOC Week 2024

This year's theme 'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud', honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture. Fire symbolises connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

From 7 to 14 July, NAIDOC Week celebrates and recognises the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Learn more about NAIDOC Week through National NAIDOC

THIS WAY UP is an online service that offers digital mental health treatment programs, with guides including:
📘 Calming Your Emotions: How to manage strong feelings during stressful times
📘 Knowing What to Say: Express the way you feel and what you need
📘 Focusing on Solutions: Tackling your problems one step at a time

You can access these free guides as well as many more via thiswayup.org.au/coping-guides/ 🤍

A very quick Friday morning reminder:

We regret to advise that Head to Health will close early to walk-ins and unplanned presentations this afternoon.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and we welcome you to come in and see us at an alternative time this week.

Our Men’s Resilience Group helps men learn strategies to boost their resilience and develop these into protective factors against stressors and mental illness.

This course is open to all adult men experiencing mental health challenges looking to build resilience 💪

Please note for all participants wanting to join, an assessment with our intake team is required prior to commencement.

To register your interest, email [email protected] or call 1800 595 212 📥

A quick Monday PSA.

Due to essential works, we regret to advise that this coming Friday 21 June, Head to Health will be closed to unplanned presentations from 3pm.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, and we welcome you to come in and see us at an alternative time this week.

During these colder months, people may struggle with finding the time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, but it is worthwhile taking the time to do so 🌤️

There are a number of beneficial reasons to head outside including boosting your overall mood and relieving stress levels.

Continuing to exercise outdoors and indoors can also help increase motivation, energy levels and Vitamin D, which often lower throughout winter 🚶

The Canberra Head to Health team is pumped to be participating in The Push-Up Challenge!

Our goal is to raise funds and awareness for mental health, helping to mental health outcomes in Australia.

The team has currently completed over 4,000 pushups and raised over $700 so far, and there's still two weeks to go. If you can, please show some support for our team by donating, with all funds going towards headspace.

Visit https://loom.ly/_s0a1qY to find out more and donate today!

Today marks the start of Men's Health Week 2024.

This week highlights the importance of men's health including the mental health, emotional wellbeing and physical health of men and boys in our communities. It also provides an opportunity to discuss the health challenges faced by men and what needs to be done to improve male health in Australia and worldwide.

Our Men's Resilience Group is aimed at adult men experiencing mental health challenges. Learn more about the program via our website
canberraheadtohealth.com.au/programs/mens-resilience-group/

We recently had the pleasure of hosting the THIS WAY UP implementation and engagement team to discuss digital service offerings and how we can best care for our consumers and support our clinicians' learning.

The team discussed a range of topics during their visit including reducing distress, insomnia, and digital CBT treatment groups.

Head to Health currently runs a hybrid therapy program combining This Way Up's online CBT programs with face-to-face appointments. We also have a new Insomnia Group utilizing the THIS WAY UP evidence-based Insomnia program.

Thank you to the THIS WAY UP team for taking the time to come in and chat with us 👋

There are benefits of learning relaxation and mindfulness in a group environment 🧘‍♂️

In a collaborative learning environment, individuals can share insights, challenges and techniques, creating a supportive network for growth. Sharing experiences creates a sense of unity, making it easier to stay committed and learn.

In our Mindfulness and Relaxation Group, individuals learn from each other in a supportive and safe peer-led space.

Kindly reach out to us via email at [email protected] or give us a call at 1800 595 212 to express your interest.

canberraheadtohealth.com.au/mindfulness-and-relaxation-group

💬 Connect
🎨 Create
👋 Engage
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Belong

Our Peer Social Group connects individuals in a safe and supportive environment. Facilitated by peer workers with lived experience of mental ill health and recovery, the group meets weekly to engage in different social
activities

To register your interest, email [email protected] or call 1800 595 212 📞

Want to be a student volunteer at a large mental health conference in Canberra?

The annual MHS conference is coming to Canberra in 2024, and there's so many great ways to get involved.

Held at the National Convention Centre from 27-30 August, there are a limited number of student volunteer opportunities available to help across the event.

This is a great way for students to attend the conference and go to some sessions in person, and also offers an opportunity for students to complete any course requirements and create valuable connections in the industry.

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, you can find out more and apply here: https://loom.ly/Ol4h6tQ

Applications close 15 June.

Processing distressing news can be incredibly unpredictable. Each person responds differently, both physically and emotionally.

In difficult times, it's important to prioritise self-care. Whether it's through a favourite hobby, exercise, or simply taking a moment for yourself, these practices can provide a sense of stability. Additionally, reaching out for external support can be invaluable.

We can help connect you to the right support for you. Find out more at canberraheadtohealth.com.au/services

When stress levels are high, your body often retains uncomfortable physical tension.

Stretching and yoga are excellent ways to alleviate this tension. Yoga not only promotes physical release but also promotes mindfulness during stressful times, offering peaceful breaks for relaxation and reflection.

canberraheadtohealth.com.au

Today, we want to take a moment to celebrate the amazing mothers and mother figures who give their love, support, and strength every single day.

On this special day, we want to remind you to take some time for yourself. You deserve moments of rest and relaxation.

To all the moms, stepmoms, grandmothers, and mother figures, thank you for your unwavering love, strength, and sacrifice.

Happy Mother's Day!

The change in weather can lead to reduced activity and feelings of isolation which can impact mood ☁️

It's important not to dismiss these feelings as simply 'winter blues' but to reach out for help and support from those around you.

Head to Health can help connect you with the right support. Find out more at canberraheadtohealth.com.au

At Canberra Head to Health, our team is committed to assisting you in discovering the most suitable support services for your needs 😌

Through an initial intake assessment, our team will help you find mental health supports that align with your needs.

For further information about our services, visit canberraheadtohealth.com.au

💬 Tell us about your experience connecting with mental health supports and services 💬

The ACT Mental Health Consumer Network is the peak body for mental health consumers in the ACT. They aim to improve mental health services by using feedback from the lived experience of people with mental illness.

Share your experience connecting with mental health supports and services and receive a $20 Woolworths or Coles gift card. The survey is open until 21 May: https://loom.ly/N5myWaE

The survey results will be included in an upcoming research report into the barriers to accessing mental health services in the ACT.

Get it off your chest 🤍

Sharing your feelings with trusted loved ones can lighten your load and provide immense relief. Whether it's a shoulder to lean on or an open ear to listen, your circle can offer invaluable support during challenging times.

Head to Health is here to help you find the right help. Learn more about our services at canberraheadtohealth.com.au.

When overwhelmed and in crisis, it's normal to feel lost and unsure where to turn.

If you find yourself in such a situation, consider reaching out to the following after-hours support helplines for assistance:

📞Lifeline: 13 11 14
📞 Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
📞 Access Mental Health: 1800 629 354
📞 MensLine: 1300 789 978

These services are available to provide immediate support during challenging times.

The Canberra region is set to get a second Head to Health Centre, this time in Tuggeranong.

The Centre will ensure the local community can receive free and timely information, support and links to appropriate mental health services.

Capital Health Network announced the new Centre in March. Read more here: https://loom.ly/2UB0XTA

Reaching out and asking for help is a couragous step - and is often the most difficult one to take.

The empathetic team at our clinic are here to listen, support, and guide you towards the next steps.

Our services are completely free of charge, with no Medicare card required.

Find out more about our services at canberraheadtohealth.com.au

Autumn is a beautiful time in Canberra, and is a great opportunity to get outdoors 🍁✨

With the cooler air and the stunning warm colours, take a moment to go outside for a walk. Walking serves as an excellent way to declutter your thoughts and create daily mindfulness.

canberraheadtohealth.com.au

30 March 2024 marks World Bipolar Day, coinciding with the birthday of Vincent Van Gogh, who was suspected of having bipolar disorder after his death.

This day aims to remove the stigma associated with bipolar disorder, creating open conversations about its impact on individuals' lives.

World Bipolar Day promotes education, advocacy, and support to develop understanding and acceptance. It empowers individuals, encourages dialogue, and illustrates the significance of accurate diagnosis and proper treatment for those living with bipolar disorder.

You can learn more about bipolar disorder and World Bipolar Day here: bipolaraustralia.org.au