Released 19/12/2019
Minister for Mental Health, Shane Rattenbury is encouraging people with a mental illness to download the My Team mental wellbeingApp created by the Australian Red Cross.
The My Team mental wellbeing app brings together a small team of trusted people, in one digital space, who want to help and support a loved one seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.
Minister Rattenbury said this app is designed for people to invite trusted family and friends to form a small team who are prepared to support the person’s goals. Through the app, members of the team can make friendly check ins with the person or just be there with encouragement along the way.
“One in five Australians experience mental illness each year and any one of those could be a relative, friend, neighbour or colleague,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“This app means the primary user has their support team available, any time, at the press of a button,” Minister Rattenbury said.
Minister Rattenbury said as we get closer to the Christmas, New Year period, it’s timely to remind people to consider their ways to wellbeing.
“ACT Health has provided plenty of useful tips for people to manage this time of year which can be quite stressful for some people”.
Some of the key take-aways to manage your wellbeing include:
- Giving back – consider connecting with your local community and volunteering;
- Reach out – to family, friends or even to neighbours;
- Be prepared – simplify your festive season and don’t over-commit to ease the pressure;
- Look after yourself – go for a walk, listen to relaxing music or read a book to calm the mind; and
- Be active – physical health is great for the mind and body.
“Over the Christmas period, I encourage you to consider taking advantage of digital tools like the new My Team mental wellbeing app which is now part of a suite of free resources available on the Australian Red Cross website”.
“I also encourage those who want to become more confident in supporting people who may be suicidal to do the Question, Persuade and Refer (QPR) online program, to learn about warning signs to look out for and the steps you can take to help someone you are concerned about.”.
“Of course, for those that need it, the ACT Government provides the Access Mental Health line which is a central point of contact to access mental health support services 24/7.”
If this statement has raised any concerns for yourself or someone you know, you can seek support through the following resources:
- Access Mental Health: 1800 629 354 or 02 6205 1065.
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- ACT Mental Health Crisis Assessment Treatment Team: 1800 629 354
For more information and to download the app go to: https://www.redcross.org.au/internal/my-team-app
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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