Reducing stigma on World Mental Health Day

The 10th of October is World Mental Health Day. To mark the event this year Mental Health Australia (MHA) is challenging the wider community to view mental illness in a different light.

According to the organisation, as many as 1 in 5 Australians are affected by mental illness. Unfortunately, the stigma and negative stereotypes that still surround mental illness in Australia stop many sufferers from seeking help. That's why MHA's campaign, ‘Do You See What I See?' aims to challenge those stereotypes and stigmas.

In a recent blog post, MHA CEO Frank Quinlan explained the concept:

"We’ve all seen it before… The stock black and white photo of someone sitting with their head in their hands signifying despair, and signifying mental illness. That’s stigma… and stigma is still the number one barrier to people seeking help," he wrote. "Help that can prevent, help that can aid recovery, help that can treat."

The idea behind the campaign is to focus on the positive impact that reducing stigma can have on the community. To promote the message, MHA is asking Aussies to make a #MentalHealthPromise to view mental illness differently, and to help others do the same.

My mental health promise is to share ideas about maintaining mental wellbeing with my colleagues.

They've launched an online promise wall, where visitors can add their own pledges, such as promising to listen to family members and lend support if needed or ensure all staff know the importance of mental wellbeing at work.

To make your own #MentalHealthDay promise head to 10/10 World Mental Health Day Australia.

If you, or someone you know is in need of support, there are mental health resources and helplines HERE.