Everyone struggles sometimes, physically and mentally - even Dad’s, husbands, brothers, and sons. Knowing when to ask for help (or offer it) is a sign of strength.
A little stressed or something more?
The key to life’s ups and downs is that they never stay the same for long. It’s the same with healthy feelings. Short-term stress, sadness, worry, low mood, and loneliness are all normal. However, they shouldn't last for months or take over your life. Please ask for help if negative feelings are:
- Impacting your ability to enjoy your daily life
- Taking you away from activities and people who used to bring you joy
- Causing physical symptoms
- Making all your decisions for you
- Limiting the way you live your life
- Damaging your relationships
- Leading you to substances, excessive exercise, or other numbing activities as a coping mechanis
If you are concerned for someone you love, it can help to ask, and give space for them to talk. See below for a list of external supports they might find useful if they feel there is a problem too.
Where men can seek mental health support
We understand that it can take a lot to ask for help, especially if you are concerned about your mental health, so start with a person you trust. Consider:
- A friend or family member. A problem shared is a problem halved. It can be a big relief to just tell someone how you are feeling.
- Your family GP. If you don’t have one, look at local practice websites for one with an interest in mental health.
- Local pharmacist. If you feel comfortable talking with your local Capital Chemist Pharmacist, please ask in-store and we can help you come up with a plan.
- Private counsellors and psychologists. Whilst you need a mental health care plan for a Medicare rebate, you can also book directly and pay privately.
- Free community services. Look for places like Mensline Australia (24/7 telephone and online counselling for men with concerns about mental health and more), Menslink ACT (free counselling and support for young men 10-25 years of age), or Lifeline (24/7 telephone, text and online support for all Australians). These places offer great resources for carers and concerned loved ones too.
Caring for your mind can be as simple as fishing
Men who fish have been practicing mindfulness for generations. Long before it was a buzzword. Hours alone on a boat letting the thoughts come and go, focussing on the movement of the water, and the gentle rocking of the boat...
Find your version of fishing. Device-free, gently physical, focused on the environment around you, and just be present. Other ways to keep your mind healthy include:
- Connect with your people. Spend time in community, on your team, with loved ones or friends, on a regular basis.
- Exercise outside. Movement and fresh air are both great tonics, take them together for maximum results - walk, run, join a class or start a team.
- Hobbies or community service. Be sure there is more to your life than work. Try a new hobby or group, or consider volunteering for a cause that matters to you.
- Sleep routines and balanced diet. You know the drill. Build healthy sleep routine and enjoy a balanced diet with a focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, good fats, nuts and legumes.
Want to talk more about how to keep your mind healthy? Ask your friendly Capital Chemist pharmacist today.
