Are we getting weaker when we ‘harden up’?

For most Australians, seeing a GP for a physical illness is the default, and yet doing the same for mental illness is met with hesitation, fear, and uncertainty.

Early intervention and treatment is critical to reducing the impact of mental illness. Whether it's regular mental health check ins, or a more focused period of treatment, psychological support can help us get better in a range of ways.

There is no catch-all approach to treating mental health. Providing continuums of care to encourage people to respond regularly and early is why we offer a variety of models of care at The Banyans Healthcare, from resets to more recuperative treatment. This places a focus on proactive healthcare, and makes room for each person because we are all at different points, have different needs, and experience different barriers to accessing care.

Most importantly, however, we need to work to create an environment where people feel safe, supported and comfortable to seek help when they need it. With professional therapeutic support, whether for proactive care or focused treatment, mental health improvements are possible. I'd suggest all of us need the positive benefits of psychological care at different intervals to help us stay at the top of our game, or to get back there again.

Acknowledging our own needs is one of the hardest things we can do, and is a strength that should be utterly respected and affirmed.If simply the anticipation of stigma or judgement slows people down from seeking help, or stops them altogether, then it is a responsibility of all of us, and each of us, to intentionally raise the issue, normalise the conversation and celebrate help seeking. That's what real strength looks like.