Let’s talk mental health stuff

You ok, boo?

We all go through mental health stuff. Y’know: those times when you’re feeling kind of meh, or when the anxiety gremlin decides to make a not-so-welcome visit. Sometimes it's a suffocating fog of numbness, and other times it's ugly crying and a serious bout of the blues. The key takeaway? You're not alone. Nearly half of all Aussies will find themselves grappling with mental health hiccups at some point in their lives.

If you're currently in the emotional thick of it, here's a roundup of options to get the help you need, ASAP.

Straight talk with a pro

Feeling out of sorts for more than a hot minute? Time to slide into a professional's DMs—or book a GP appointment. Lay it all out—your feelings, your worries, your situation. Don't freak out if they suggest a mental health care plan: it's a roadmap to feeling better and could even save you some cash. Seeking professional help is especially crucial if you don't have a tight circle to lean on. Trust us, early intervention can make a world of difference. 

Reach out to a loved one

So maybe you're not quite ready to spill the beans on a therapist’s couch, and that's okay. Why not open up to someone you actually trust? Shoot 'em a text, catch up over a cuppa, or just let them know you're not feeling 100%. Opening up to a friend or family member might feel daunting, but if your gut's nudging you to talk, you probably should. And who knows? You might snag some life-changing advice while you're at it.

Mindfulness and me-time

There are heaps of little things you can do to bolster your mental fortitude when your emotional engine is running hot—whether it's basking in the early morning sun, tuning into a killer podcast, or getting pruney in a bath for hours on end. And by the way, 'me-time' doesn’t mean you have to go into hermit mode: if your ideal self-care scenario involves lounging on the couch with your squad, armed with cheap wine and a Nintendo Switch, then why TF not? Little joys like these can build resilience and uplift your mood during tough situations.

Your coping toolkit

For when you need a quick pick-me-up, keep an anti-anxiety toolkit within arm's reach. This can be a lifesaver when dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, or sensory overload. Your mood-shifting toolkit can have anything from fidget spinners to your fave body lotion and a trusty journal—whatever helps calm your racing thoughts and keeps you grounded in the present moment.

It’s A-OK not to be okay

Remember, it's absolutely okay to admit you're not okay. Give yourself the grace and space you need. There's no rush to ‘snap out of it’. When you feel emotionally wobbly, know that taking the first step towards help is a brave move. RU OK offers valuable resources that can guide you through this challenging time. For immediate, confidential support, you can count on Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636)—they're excellent options for those who prefer the anonymity or convenience of remote help. For those aged between 5 and 25, Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800) is also ready to lend an empathetic ear. 

Taking care of your mental health is not a sign of weakness: it's a mark of strength and self-awareness. So if you need to, make that call. You're worth it, boo.