Breaking the Stigma How Mental Health Awareness Can Change Lives

Mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being, yet it continues to be misunderstood and stigmatised. While Australia has made significant strides in raising awareness, misconceptions persist, often preventing individuals from seeking the help they need. In 2024, we find ourselves in a world where the conversation about mental health is louder than ever, but there is still work to be done.

October, which is Mental Health Awareness Month, offers an opportunity to shine a light on the importance of mental health, dispel myths, and encourage Australians to seek support. In this blog, we’ll address common misconceptions, explain how seeking help can improve quality of life, and introduce the mental health services available at Amtan Medical, including those provided by our psychologist, Steven Kose.

The Current State of Mental Health in Australia

Mental health issues are more common than many think. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), nearly half (45%) of all Australians will experience a mental health condition at some point in their life. Anxiety disorders are the most common, affecting around one in four people (26%) in Australia.

In Queensland alone, mental health challenges are on the rise. In 2020, over 60% of Queenslanders reported experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with many feeling the long-term impacts of isolation, financial stress, and uncertainty. As alarming as these statistics are, they emphasise the urgent need to remove the stigma around mental health and encourage individuals to seek timely intervention.

Common Misconceptions About Mental Health

Misunderstanding mental health conditions can make it difficult for those struggling to seek help. Some of the most persistent myths include:

1. Mental Health Problems Are Rare: Many believe that mental health conditions are uncommon, but in reality, millions of Australians deal with them every year. Depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders are especially prevalent.
2. You Can Just ‘Get Over It’: Mental health conditions are not a sign of weakness or something one can simply snap out of. They are complex conditions that often require professional intervention and support.
3. Seeking Help is a Sign of Weakness: One of the most damaging misconceptions is that seeking help is a sign of weakness. In reality, it takes courage to recognise the need for help and to take the steps necessary to improve your mental health.
4. Therapy is Only for ‘Serious’ Cases: Therapy is for everyone. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing mental health challenges or looking for help navigating a tough period, mental health support can be beneficial at any stage.

How Seeking Help Can Improve Well-Being

Seeking help for mental health concerns is not just about managing symptoms—it’s about living a fuller, more balanced life. Early intervention, especially through mental health screenings, can lead to better outcomes. Just like physical health, preventive mental health care is key to maintaining long-term wellness.

Here’s how professional mental health support can improve overall well-being:

• Emotional Resilience: Therapy provides tools to better manage emotions and stress, which enhances overall resilience to life’s challenges.
• Improved Relationships: Mental health conditions often affect personal relationships. Therapy can help people understand and manage these issues, leading to healthier interactions with loved ones.
• Physical Health Benefits: Mental health and physical health are deeply interconnected. Studies show that untreated mental health conditions can exacerbate physical illnesses, including heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain.
• Workplace Productivity: Poor mental health can reduce productivity and job satisfaction. Addressing these issues through counselling can lead to improved performance and overall workplace well-being.
  

Breaking the Stigma and Seeking Help

Breaking the stigma around mental health begins with open conversations and access to professional support. This is why Amtan Medical is proud to offer comprehensive mental health services. Our team is here to ensure that mental health care is as accessible and stigma-free as possible.

Meet Steven Kose, a highly experienced psychologist at Amtan Medical. Steven has helped countless individuals on their mental health journey, offering personalised care for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress management. Steven’s approach focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment where patients can explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and work toward long-term mental health goals.

Mental Health Services at Amtan

At Amtan Medical, we provide a range of mental health services designed to support our patients through every stage of their journey. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, or depression, or simply need someone to talk to, our mental health team is here to help. Our services include:

• Counselling and Therapy: Personalised therapy sessions tailored to each individual’s needs.
• Mental Health Assessments: Comprehensive evaluations to understand your mental health status and identify the best treatment options.
• Ongoing Support: Long-term mental health management, including strategies for dealing with stress, anxiety, and other conditions.

We understand that asking for help can be hard. That’s why our team at Amtan is committed to creating a welcoming environment where every patient feels heard and supported.

How to Access Mental Health Support

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, don’t wait to seek help. The first step can be as simple as talking to someone. Book an appointment with Steven Kose at Amtan Medical and start your mental health journey today.

The Future of Mental Health in Queensland

Queensland has made mental health a priority, with several government initiatives aimed at improving access to care and reducing stigma. As part of the Queensland Mental Health Commission’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan, efforts are being made to promote mental wellness and create more inclusive support systems for those in need.

Still, there is much to do. By continuing to break down the barriers surrounding mental health and encouraging early intervention, we can ensure that more Queenslanders—and Australians—get the help they need before it’s too late.

Mental health is a vital aspect of our overall well-being, and seeking help is the first step toward a healthier, happier life. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s break the stigma, encourage open conversations, and remind everyone that it’s okay to ask for help.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that Amtan Medical is here to provide compassionate care. Visit Steven Kose or any of our skilled professionals today, and take the first step toward better mental health.

For more information on how we can help, visit Amtan Medical.