108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses TOPIC
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
It’s rare that I get rumbly or ruminate about stuff, however this year has left me waning. Feeling like the year should be closer to November than July (yep, it has been one of those years), I have somewhat surprised myself at the level of equanimity that I’ve managed to maintain through some challenging, and at times unnerving moments. Staying upright, composed, self-assured and all the time reminding myself that I’ve got this.
Interestingly, it’s often not those big moments – the chaos, disappointment, loss, trauma – that tip us over the edge. Those are the moments we often take in our stride, head held high, dignity and confidence in check. Instead, it’s those seemingly insignificant yet irritating moments that send us into a tailspin. Like last week, when my husband accidentally spilled some water from a saucepan onto the cooktop. Oh my, in that moment I completely lost my mind.
Like a cork being released from a champagne bottle, my emotions spilled over, and my poor husband stood there, mouth agape, while I reminded him that if he didn’t clean it up straight away it would bake onto the cooktop. Hands in the air and yelling at him “Don’t you understand, if you don’t remove it now you’ll never get it off!!!”
There was so much pent-up frustration, disappointment, anger, sadness and hurt that spilled over in that moment. None of it had anything to do with a bit of spilt water, or my husband. So often it’s the small stuff that ignites the switch, the stuff that breaks the proverbial camel’s back. These small, seemingly insignificant things have a way of sneaking up on us. Snowballing, layer upon layer, increasing in size and significance, slowly gathering momentum until suddenly… BOOM! Out of nowhere, the lid is lifted and whatever we’ve been stuffing down is released, like firing a ball from a cannon.
Life is full of tough stuff we need to navigate, and at the end of each day, we have a choice. We have an opportunity to pause, reflect and recover from whatever has been thrown our way during the day. The reality, however, is that we don’t always make this choice, and instead get consumed in routines and habits that don’t always support us.
Numbing ourselves from the day with alcohol, TV or other activities like online shopping that enable us to ‘take our minds off things’. Refusing to open up about our day, or in some cases, not having anyone to share it with. Reneging on social engagements with friends or family or ditching our usual exercise routine because ‘I have had a big day and really don’t feel like it.’
We must find ways to re-energise from our day, find things that support us to rest and recover so those small things stay just that – small and insignificant. Get an early night, do some breath work, meditation or journalling, maybe even end your shower with cold water (I promise this works, even if you only do it for 15 seconds you’ll see the benefits).
My recent outburst was a great reminder that some of my daily recovery practices may have slipped, or perhaps I have simply not realised the effect some of the events of this year have had on my mental wellbeing. I therefore encourage you to use this as a reminder to check in on how things are going for you.
Anything happened recently that resembled my ‘spilt water on the cooktop’ moment? Anything that in the big scheme of things, you look back on now and think was probably an overreaction?
If so, what’s one thing that you’ll start doing today that will better support you next time?
In this captivating podcast, join our hosts Tanya and Kate as they delve into the complex and timely topic of mental wellbeing. Coming out of the challenging times of COVID and facing various crises, many individuals are struggling with their mental health. However, mental wellbeing is not always easily understood or visible. Through insightful conversations, Tanya and Kate explore what mental wellbeing truly means and how it can be nurtured.
Drawing from their experiences at Impact, they discuss the use of simple scales, such as the flourishing scale, to understand and articulate mental wellbeing. They shed light on the importance of connections and purposeful living, emphasising the impact of social relationships, personal competence, and optimism for the future.
The hosts also examine the role of technology in mental wellbeing, acknowledging its potential to both hinder and support flourishing. They explore the detrimental effects of doomscrolling and offer practical strategies to regain control, such as disrupting patterns and engaging in digital detox. Small changes can make a significant difference in breaking free from negative loops and reclaiming agency over our lives.
With the aim of helping listeners move towards a state of flourishing, Kate and Tanya delve into the concept itself. They delve into the research that shows only a small percentage of individuals are flourishing, while a larger portion languish. The hosts passionately discuss practical steps that can be taken daily to enhance mental wellbeing and step into a flourishing state.
Join Kate and Tanya on this transformative podcast journey as they empower listeners to understand their mental wellbeing, disrupt harmful patterns, and navigate the path towards flourishing. Take control and prioritise your mental health to live your best life. Thank you for listening to this episode of "Stronger Together" We hope you enjoyed the conversation and gained valuable insights.
Hover over the player and click the share button located on the lower right side.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses decision fatigue.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Life is filled with countless choices. From the moment we wake up until we lay our heads on the pillow at night, we are confronted with decisions—some trivial, others life-altering. According to University of Leicester lecturer Eva Krockow, we make upwards of 35,000 decisions each day. It's no wonder that decision fatigue, that overwhelming feeling when faced with choices, can leave us feeling mentally drained and emotionally exhausted!
But how do you know if you're suffering from decision fatigue, and more importantly, what can you do about it?
Signs of decision fatigue are often subtle but pervasive. Feeling overwhelmed when faced with too many choices, avoiding decision-making tasks and an inability to think clearly or focus are telltale signs that decision fatigue has taken hold. Frequent procrastination, a sense of ‘stuckness’, overthinking, and physical symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep, and headaches are also common indicators. If you find yourself acting impulsively or without thorough consideration, wasting time unnecessarily or if you're unsatisfied with the choices you ultimately make, decision fatigue may be at play.
So, what are two things in your day that you could automate so that you don’t have to make a decision about them? For me, the two things are always what to eat and what to wear.
Let’s start with food. Tip 1 is to work out what meals you wish to eat throughout the week and repeat. Once you set the menu up, prepare your grocery list and choose your preferred supermarket, the hard work is complete. My breakfast and lunch are prepared on a Sunday and can get me through the week, therefore I only need to prepare dinner. The mental load associated with deciding what to cook, mindless wandering in the supermarket aisles or trying to decide what to pick up for dinner - gone.
Personally, it leaves me feeling way less frazzled and able to turn up better when I arrive home to my family. When we get tired of the routine or are feeling less overwhelmed, we change it up. Until then, this simple act of planning ahead and repeating the same plan each week is guaranteed to not only bring a sense of structure and organisation, it will also free up valuable mental energy so that it can be redirected to more important things.
So, let’s move onto clothes. What to wear is such a mind numbing, yet complex task for the majority of us. So, tip 2 is all about how we can simplify this important, yet mundane task of dressing ourselves.
If you work or volunteer, perhaps choose a ‘work uniform’ if you don’t have a standard uniform. On weekends, keep things simple. I often find myself wearing the same things and here’s the thing - no one cares what I wear. We sometimes get sucked into this vortex of having too many choices – trying to mix this, or match with that. Very nice for a special event, however, for many of us, those special events are the exception rather than the rule.
My strategy is always to automate decisions wherever possible, and I therefore promise that these two simple, well-tested strategies will save you hours of planning and reduce potentially hundreds of unnecessary, energy draining decisions from your day.
Decision fatigue is a common challenge we all face from time to time, therefore decluttering our physical and mental spaces can work wonders. Taking control by streamlining and automating simple daily practices will not only reduce the number of decisions you make each day, it will also support you to ‘turn up’ in a more positive way, whilst developing a greater sense of peace of mind and clarity.
In a small room filled with laughter, the occasional tear, heartfelt discussions, and a shared understanding, gathers a group of men brought together by the bond of fatherhood. IMPACT Community Services' Dad's Group is providing a lifeline to fathers across the Bundaberg region. Every second Friday, the doors of IMPACT Community Services HQ open to offer a supportive environment for dads at every stage of their parenting journey.
Led by the compassionate and experienced Lenny Vaeagi, a Support Worker with IMPACT’s Family Mental Health Support team, the Dad's Group welcomes fathers from all walks of life - new dads, single fathers, partnered fathers, those facing challenging family situations, and those who have come out the other side of tough times. The group recognises the diverse experiences of fatherhood and aims to foster connections, build resilience, and provide a space for men to share their joys and struggles.
Lenny says, "We create a judgment-free zone where fathers can open up, share their experiences, and learn from one another. It's a unique opportunity to find solace, gain knowledge, and form meaningful connections."
Single father of four Aaron* has been an integral part of the Dad's Group since its inception. Aaron reflects on the significance of the group and the impact it has had on him and others, stating, "It's like building a picket fence. When you start, it seems like you're not making much progress, but bit by bit you get there. Everyone has feelings and doubts, but you can talk about anything. To have trust in the group is the whole point."
Aaron shares openly in the group’s sessions in the hope he will inspire other members to speak openly about their own situations. He believes in the importance of reciprocity, saying, "What you take in, you give back – it's okay to speak up if you need something. We're all there to share; it's all about give and take."
He said the group is leading the way in breaking multiple cycles and challenging beliefs around a wide range of issues, including gender roles and domestic violence, and helps fathers to instill values in their children.
"It's not just about getting help; it's about being a part of something," Aaron emphasises. "Isolation creates depression, so it's good to be involved. The main focus is being better for ourselves, which means being better for your kids and your family."
Through his participation in the Dad's Group, Aaron has not only found a network of friends who understand his challenges but has also gained confidence and a sense of acceptance. The group has become a lifeline for fathers seeking support, guidance, and a safe space to express their thoughts and emotions.
Aaron fondly recounts their shared experiences, saying, "We love getting together for fishing trips, playing pool, and enjoying meals as a group. It's about more than just support; it's about building friendships and enjoying life together. Isolation creates depression, so it’s good to be involved.”
He acknowledges that change can be difficult, but he encourages others to take the first step by attending the Group.
"Showing up is the first step towards making a change. It's about embracing the opportunity to connect with others who understand what you're going through."
Group Facilitator Lenny believes the Dad's Group stands as a testament to the power of community and shared experiences. He says that by providing a platform for fathers to come together, learn from one another, and grow as individuals, group makes a lasting impact on the lives of its members.
“As the Dad's Group continues to support one another, share their journeys, and engage in meaningful community initiatives, they embody the notion that fathers have the capacity to create a ripple effect of positivity, extending their impact far beyond their own lives,” he says.
And for Aaron, his journey with the Dad’s Group won’t be ending any time soon.
“It’s so good to be a part of a group that supports each other, we all want the best possible outcomes.”
To become a member of the IMPACT Dad's Group, individuals must be referred through other parenting programs offered by IMPACT Community Services. IMPACT offers a range of services covering mental health, training, employment, intensive family support, parenting and NDIS. For more information about our services please call us on 4153 4233.
*Name changed for privacy reasons.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses burnout, and the three Fs to look out for.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Damian Hadwick, Mark McGowan, David Koche, and Jacinda Ardern have one thing in common: they all recently quit high-profile jobs because they had enough. While job resignations have become common during the pandemic and the "great resignation" trend, their cases go beyond the usual reasons. Something more sinister is leaving them feeling worn-out and unstable.
Jacinda Ardern summed it up perfectly when she said, "I am human. We give as much as we can for as long as we can and then it's time." This sentiment aligns with psychiatrist Gordon Parker's analogy of an elastic band. Just like an elastic band loses its elasticity when stretched repeatedly, humans lose their ability to bounce back when pushed beyond their limits. This can lead to burnout, where individuals feel completely depleted.
Recognising the symptoms of burnout and acting before losing the ability to bounce back is crucial. Personally, I’m always mindful of these three F’s: fear, friction, and fatigue, which can hinder my physical and mental wellbeing, and to address them before running out of fuel.
People are feeling more stressed and fearful than normal, with the media continually showering us with stories about the escalating cost of living, housing shortages, war in Russia, relations with China… it feels like we’re being bombarded with new and escalating challenges, many of which feel (and often are) outside our control.
Fear is an innate reaction within us all. It’s a mechanism to keep us safe, yet when we register a threat stimulus it triggers a response in the amygdala (part of the brain) that prepares us to fight, flee or freeze. The issue is that the mere perception of threat is enough for the amygdala to be activated. In the current environment, the perception of threat can be constant, creating layer upon layer, and resulting in a genuine sense of concern and overwhelm.
Friction is a force, a feeling that we can encounter when interacting with people, systems or things. These things can be outside of our power, and could be related to toxic workplaces, people or the feeling we get when something does not quite align to our values or beliefs. When the force pushing on us exceeds the energy we have, or are willing to push against, friction can leave us feeling stuck and powerless. Too much friction can be painful and destructive, both physically and emotionally.
And then there’s fatigue, which refers to our emotional and mental muscle when it’s overused or not exercised enough and so stops working at its best. Imagine pulling away from social events, friends, family, because isolation feels simpler. Shutting down from the outside world - physically, mentally, emotionally - because everything feels too hard, and you just crave some quiet. An escape from the relentless bombardment of life.
Many of us have experienced fear, friction, and fatigue at some point. The key is not to avoid these feelings but accept them as part of the human experience, knowing they will pass. The challenge lies in not allowing these feelings to consume us and prevent us from experiencing other positive emotions.
If fear, friction, and fatigue seem to be taking control, reflect on three important questions: Can I still recognise and accept things beyond my control? Can I distinguish between behaviours that help me and those that harm me? Am I still engaging in activities that energise and support my emotional and mental wellbeing? Answering "no" to any of these questions may indicate a need to make changes to ensure the three F's are not hindering your ability to live your best life.
IMPACT Community Services’ Chill and Chat Group is offering a ray of light in the darkness for South Burnett residents struggling with their mental health. Led by Mental Health Peer Support Workers Luke Arnold and Kaelene Fairbrother, the group offers a safe haven for individuals seeking solace, connection, and personal growth.
Most Wednesday mornings, the doors of IMPACT’s Mental Health Drop-In Centre in Kingaroy swing open, welcoming everyone with guidance, compassion and shared experiences. Through the guiding hands of Luke and Kaelene, this support group has become a lifeline for many, providing a platform for individuals to share their journeys, struggles and triumphs in an environment free from judgment.
The essence of the Chill and Chat Group lies in the power of peer support—an aspect that sets it apart from traditional therapy settings. Luke Arnold, a passionate Mental Health Peer Support Worker, shares the significance of this unique approach, stating, "Through shared experiences and open conversations, participants discover they are not alone in their struggles. Peer support creates an invaluable sense of belonging and empowers individuals to heal and grow together."
Beyond the enriching conversations, the group fosters a sense of community through engaging activities that spark joy and connection. Participants indulge in friendly games, relish in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, and savour the delectable treats lovingly baked by Luke and Kaelene. These simple yet meaningful experiences promote a welcoming and inclusive space, allowing individuals to break free from the confines of their homes and combat the pernicious grip of loneliness.
What sets the Chill and Chat Group apart is its holistic approach to mental health support. Many members of the group also come together to take part in a regular gardening group organised by CentaCare. This collaborative endeavour provides an opportunity for individuals to reconnect with nature, finding solace and serenity in the small things.
Joining the Chill and Chat Group is simple. Participants are encouraged to self-refer, and referrals also come from various local organisations including the local mental health unit, CentaCare, and Lives Live Well. By actively engaging with the Chill and Chat Group, individuals step into a judgement free zone where they can openly discuss their treatment experiences, confront life's challenges head-on, and receive unwavering support from others going through mental health struggles.
IMPACT Community Services is dedicated to fostering a community where healing and growth flourish. Through the efforts of Luke and Kaelene, the Chill and Chat Group stands as a shining example of the power of connection, understanding, and solidarity in the face of mental health struggles, and highlights the immense value of non-clinical support for mental health.
In a world that often feels disconnected, the Chill and Chat Group offers a ray of hope—a place where shared experiences light the path to healing and connection.
IMPACT’s Mental Health Drop In Centre is located at 6/119 Youngman Street, Kingaroy, and is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm. The Chill and Chat Group meets most Wednesdays at 10am. The group doesn’t run on the third Wednesday of each month.
To find out more about IMPACT’s mental health support services head to https://impact.org.au/support-and-wellbeing/
To contact the team, phone 0488 534 222 or email larnold@impact.org.au.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses how to nurture your wellbeing when times are tough.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Australian Unity recently released the results of their annual Wellbeing Index, and it deeply concerns me to learn that wellbeing in Australia has reached its lowest point on record.
According to the annual Australian Unity Wellbeing Index 2022, this result is the most amplified in our young people, highlighting the immense challenges faced by today's youth, and we must address this urgent issue with empathy and support. The report points out that the triple crises of the cost of living, COVID-19, and environmental urgency are possible reasons behind this decline in wellbeing. It is crucial that we acknowledge these factors and work towards finding solutions that can empower everyone, but especially young people, to improve their personal wellbeing.
Amidst these complex challenges, it's important to remember that even small steps towards self care and personal growth can have a significant impact on our overall wellbeing. While we may not be able to change the world overnight, we do have the power to make positive changes in our own lives. Here are a few suggestions to nurture personal wellbeing:
Prioritise self-leadership: Take time each day to engage in activities that contribute to your wellbeing. There is no right or wrong with this, it is very much a personal thing. One person might do exercise, whereas someone else might do a number of smaller things throughout the day. The focus is on including things that assist to lower stress or replenish your energy.
Foster connections: Social support is crucial for wellbeing. Where possible, seek out relationships that uplift and inspire you. Reach out to friends, family, or even support groups who share similar experiences or interests. Connection and a sense of belonging can provide emotional resilience.
Cultivate gratitude: In times of difficulty, it can be easy to focus on what's going wrong. Practicing gratitude can help shift our mindset towards the positive aspects of life. Each day, reflect on three things you are grateful for, no matter how small they may seem. You might like to write them down so you can look back for a shot of gratitude inspiration when you need it!
Take care of your physical health: Engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep are vital for overall wellbeing. These practices not only benefit your physical health but also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional state.
Last week, IMPACT Community Services launched the Stronger Together Podcast. If you’re struggling with feeling a lack of wellbeing, I urge you to tune into episode one, which focuses on mental wellbeing. The Stronger Together podcast offers insights, strategies, and personal stories that can help to navigate the issues so many in our community are facing.
While the challenges faced today by many, and especially by young people, are undeniably daunting, we must remember that collective action and support can make a difference. Let's foster a society that values the wellbeing of its members and works towards creating an environment where everyone can thrive. By taking small steps towards personal wellbeing and engaging in meaningful conversations, we can build resilience and contribute to the collective wellbeing of our communities.
Peter's harrowing experience prompts quest to change government funding focus
In a quiet park in Nanango, Peter’s peaceful morning took a sudden and harrowing turn.
What seemed like a harmless scene of someone setting up a flying fox quickly turned into a traumatic suicide attempt.
Ditching his morning coffee, Peter intervened and successfully saved the man's life, an act that would have a profound impact on both of them.
“He was a young fellow, and his body was just swinging there,” Peter said, reflecting on the incident earlier this year.
“I ran over and took his weight and got the rope off from around his neck.
“Initially, when I got him down, he was just screaming … I thought he was going to take a swing at me.”
The incident deeply affected Peter, who later realised it had triggered his own trauma. Motivated by this experience, he embarked on a mission to explore available mental health support options.
But what he found was a frustrating reality of lengthy waitlists and a shortage of available clinical staff. That was until he walked through the door at IMPACT Community Services’ Kingaroy office where he met Kaelene and Luke, mental health peer support workers.
Luke and Kaelene’s personal lived experience with mental health struggles enables him to provide a unique approach that is grounded in empathy, relatability and understanding. For Peter, the connection happened quickly.
“Dealing with a psychologist and someone with lived experience is like chalk and cheese. In Kaelene and Luke I have found people I can talk to,” Peter said.
“You can open up and discuss things in a way knowing that they’re also someone who life has sunk its teeth into.
“They showed me what I'd call ‘community through acceptance and inclusion’.”
Peter says his experience has “lit a fire inside”. He is pushing for major change in how those with mental health challenges, particularly men, are supported.
He has shared his ordeal to demonstrate the current problems.
IMPACT Community Services is currently lobbying for increased government funding for peer support workers so people can access support during the small window of opportunity when they reach out for help.
IMPACT’s Managing Director Tanya O’Shea, herself a qualified psychologist, said a cultural shift needed to happen within the mental health ecosystem that recognised the vital role non-clinical staff provided.
Peter said the man he saved, who was aged in his 20s, was put off seeking support from a psychologist due to the cost. He had also endured several frustrating attempts at finding help in other spaces.
“He spoke to one person, a counsellor, who preached religion to him. He also told me he’d considered calling a helpline but didn’t want to speak to a faceless person on the other end. He’d also tried going to a community group because he wanted to speak with a male, but they didn’t have the experience to help,” Peter said.
The man was suffering due to the loss of access to his children. He has since left the area and is safely with family.
Peter said after getting the man down he had attempted to call the authorities for help. However, this had aggravated the situation, so in the end he convinced the man to go with him for a drive to get coffee. They drove and talked for more than two hours before he agreed to go to hospital.
Luke said it was crucial to invest in mental health services to ensure that no one fell through the cracks and that everyone had access to the support they needed during their most vulnerable moments.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the launch of the Stronger Together podcast.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
In a world where change is constant and our community faces ever-evolving challenges, it is more important than ever that we foster connections, inspire transformation, and confront the pressing issues head-on. It’s with great pride and excitement that I introduce the Stronger Together Podcast— a new platform dedicated to tackling the big issues we face head-on and offering insights, solutions, and empowering conversations that will resonate with each and every one of us.
The Stronger Together Podcast is an extension of the Stronger Together column. Through the podcast, we aim to delve even deeper into the topics that matter most to us all, ranging from mental health and physical wellness to employment, parenting, coping with the cost of living crisis, living your life the way you want, and much more. Our mission is simple: to inform, assist and empower individuals, families, and communities by providing a platform for open, honest, and informative discussions.
I am proud to host the Stronger Together Podcast alongside my co-host, Kate Buckland—a remarkable individual who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the podcast. As a Communications Officer at IMPACT, Kate has dedicated her career to amplifying voices and telling stories that make a difference. With over 20 years of experience in journalism, public relations, and communications, Kate possesses a keen understanding of the power of words, storytelling and the importance of shaping engaging and meaningful conversations. Kate's commitment to empowering individuals shines through her insightful conversations and her ability to ask the right questions. Her expertise will guide our discussions and ensure that we explore every topic thoroughly, leaving no stone unturned.
Together, Kate and I are committed to delivering thought-provoking content that resonates with you and inspires you. We will invite experts, professionals, and individuals with lived experiences to join us as we explore the challenges faced by many in our community. By sharing their stories, insights, and strategies for success, we hope to inspire you to take action, make positive changes in your own lives, and contribute to the betterment of our community.
Mark your calendars! New episodes will be released on the second Thursday of every month, allowing you to tune in regularly and stay up to date with the latest conversations and insights. Each episode promises to bring you compelling stories, expert advice, and thought-provoking discussions that will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to make a difference.
I invite you to join us on this incredible journey as we navigate the complexities of our world, seek out solutions, and discover the incredible strength that lies within our community. Together, we can create a positive impact, make a difference, and stand strong—because we are truly stronger together.
For more information about the Stronger Together Podcast, including where to listen, go to https://impact.org.au/podcast/
IMPACT Community Services, a leading advocate for better mental health support, is urging government officials and policymakers to prioritise non-clinical mental health services as a vital component of the mental health framework.
The not-for-profit organisation, which operates across the Bundaberg, Wide Bay, Discovery Coast and Burnett regions, is highlighting the pressing need to address the current staff shortage and underfunding of non-clinical support, which is leaving many without the necessary assistance.
According to recent reports, individuals in mental health crises endure waits of up to 12 hours in emergency department waiting rooms. Many are then turned away due to bed shortages, leaving them without the crucial support they desperately require, when they need it most. Furthermore, extensive waiting lists for external mental health services exacerbate the problem, with dedicated specialists unable to accommodate everyone in need of critical assistance.
During the 2021-22 period, over 61,500 people in Queensland and more than 280,000 people across Australia presented to public hospital emergency departments with mental health issues, figures released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare show.
IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O’Shea said these alarming statistics served as a wake-up call to address the pressing mental health crisis.
Mrs O’Shea said non-clinical support services, such as community-based programs and peer support groups, were integral to improving the mental health system.
She said non-clinical support offered greater accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and a holistic approach to mental well-being. By complementing clinical treatment, these services provided early intervention and much-needed hope to those in desperate need of support.
In an effort to effect change, Mrs O’Shea said IMPACT was advocating for increased funding opportunities that empowered non-clinical support services. By expanding resources for non-clinical mental health workers, including Mental Health Peer Support Workers, individuals can receive the critical assistance required to begin their journey towards recovery.
"We cannot afford to neglect the importance of non-clinical mental health support,” Mrs O’Shea said.
“It is essential that we prioritise the development and implementation of these services to bridge the gap in our mental health system and ensure that vulnerable people receive the comprehensive support they deserve."
IMPACT Community Services has written to local and national stakeholders, including elected officials and key government decision-makers, encouraging them to join their advocacy efforts. Together, they aim to fight for a mental health system that truly supports everyone, leaving no one behind.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the concept of holding things tightly, holding things lightly.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Have you ever held onto an idea, goal, or belief so tightly that you’ve lost sight of the big picture? Enter the concept of holding things tightly, holding things lightly.
Before we explore this, grab a pen and take a seat. Extend your arm out in front of you, with your palm facing upwards and place the pen in your open palm. Now hold it tightly and notice how you feel. Open your palm and let the pen rest gently in your hand. Notice that you can move it around, watch as it gently moves with the motion of your body. Did you notice any difference in how you were feeling when holding the pen tightly compared to holding it lightly?
This concept is all about bringing awareness to those things or events that you might be consciously or unconsciously holding onto too tightly. Gripping onto it with all that you have, noticing tension build in your hand and your arm. Potentially that tension extends to other parts of your body – maybe your jaw, your neck, your shoulders. It can even manifest physically, causing symptoms such as muscle tightness, headaches and digestive issues. Sometimes we “grip” onto things so tightly that it can become a hindrance to our personal and professional growth. And sometimes, the inability to let things go can adversely impact on our physical and mental wellbeing.
Holding things tightly can create a sense of control, but it can also create feelings of overwhelm and anxiety. When we’re holding onto something tightly, we tend to be more reactive and defensive. We might jump in without taking a step back to assess the situation, and can become rigid in our thinking.
It can also cause a sense of tunnel vision, where we become so focused on one goal or situation that we can no longer see other opportunities around us.
In contrast, holding something lightly means we’re not attached to it. We can let go of our grip and allow things to flow naturally. Holding something lightly also means we are more comfortable with uncertainty and change. We are open to different perspectives and ideas, are less likely to become overwhelmed or reactive and can approach challenges with a more flexible and resilient mindset.
Could you be holding onto some things too tightly? Perhaps you have noticed feelings of overwhelm, anxiety, stress starting to creep in or are experiencing physical symptoms that are impacting your day-to-day life? If so, then it may be time to start loosening your grip and letting go.
Letting go can be challenging, but it’s essential for our personal and professional growth. One way to start letting go is to focus on being in the moment. Start by closing your eyes and focusing on your breath for a few minutes, noticing your thoughts and emotions and then letting them go. You might even like to visualise them floating away from you. This mindful action allows us to be present in the moment without judgement or attachment.
Another way to let go is to shift our perspective. Instead of focusing on what we’re holding onto, we can focus on what we gain by letting go. We can look for new opportunities, experiences and relationships that may not have been possible if we had continued to hold onto the past.
I encourage you to grab a pen whenever you notice that you might be holding onto something too tightly, hold it tight and then release it, reminding yourself what it feels like to hold it lightly. Now write down what you have been holding onto and remind yourself what life will look like once you let it go.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses building your personal resilience.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
There is no questioning that life is full of ups and downs. But why is it that some of us give into adversity and fall at the first hurdle while others are more easily able to overcome similar challenges and continue to thrive?
The answer lies in personal resilience.
Resilience is having the emotional strength to cope effectively with adversity, hardship and trauma. People who are resilient have the capacity to recovery quickly from or withstand difficulties that life throws at us, like financial stress, health worries, troubled relationships or relationship breakdowns, loss of a loved one or perhaps security and safety concerns. They utilise their resources, strengths and skills to work through setbacks and overcome challenges.
The good news is that personal resilience is something we can build over time. Think of resilience like a muscle – the more we exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
There are some great strategies we can use to help build our personal resilience. Building your personal cheer squad can be a powerful way to build up your resilience. Think of your friends and family, and make yourself a list:
I also encourage you to think about your lifestyle, and to consider what habits and rituals you can create to boost your resilience and wellbeing. You can break your habits and rituals down into these sections
Finally, you can also zone in on your thoughts. What key attitudes and beliefs do you want to change? Think about what you want to focus on and what skill this will strengthen. For example, I will focus on … to strengthen ….
When it comes to building your resilience, don’t give up! In the words of Nelson Mandela, “do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again”.
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week, in honour of International Women's Day, Tanya discusses raising girls to find self esteem and worth beyond their appearance.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
This Wednesday (8 March) marks International Women’s Day, an annual celebration that recognises the contributions, accomplishments and achievements of women and girls, and those who identify as female, across the planet.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to talk about raising our girls, and the role we play in moulding them into confident and capable women who have the skills to look beyond social media and society’s perceptions to truly embrace diversity in all its forms and to accept themselves as they are.
Our young people are stuck in an epidemic of body hate. As women – mothers, teachers, sisters, aunts – we hold great power when it comes to influencing how our girls and younger women see themselves.
Our world is superficial and full of messages about how we ‘should’ look, and this is affecting our children in greater numbers than ever before. Unrealistic and narrow beauty standards and suggestions that how you look is linked to your worth are incredibly harmful to young people’s self-esteem. We must help them to navigate this, and to find self-worth beyond appearance.
In March 2022, Dove released their report on the Dove Self Esteem Project, and the results were shocking. They found that:
While those statistics are scary, it’s not all doom and gloom! The report also highlighted the fact that 7 in 10 girls felt better for unfollowing idealised beauty content, and 80% of girls would like for their parents to talk to them about idealised beauty content.
Taryn Brumfitt was recently named as this year’s Australian of the Year for her work in the body image space. She says there is so much we can do to positively influence the young people in our lives and how they feel about themselves. She wants parents and those with influence over young people to recognise that kids hear and see everything, and in our homes we need to promote a safe space for them to flourish.
Our children look up to us. It is our job to model positive behaviour when it comes to the relationship we have with our bodies.
I strongly encourage you to think about how you talk about your own body in front of your children or other young people you have influence over. Try shifting your focus to the positive things your body can do and how you feel rather than focusing on how it looks, especially when it comes to your perceived flaws. Do you see exercise as a punishment or is moving your body joyfully your focus? Do you view food as an enemy rather than a way to nourish body? Are you openly critical when referring to certain parts of your body?
Body Image Movement and the Dove Self Esteem Project both have some great resources that can help you to discuss body image with young people, and it’s an important conversation to have.
As Taryn says, we need to be teaching our children to have a values system that is built on who they are and what they do, and that has nothing to do with what they look like. Embrace your uniqueness, embrace the individuality that you bring.
#EmbraceEquity
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses JOMO - The Joy of Missing Out
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
Have you heard of FOMO? Since the beginning of time, humans have wanted to feel included. Even though FOMO – Fear Of Missing Out – was borne as a direct result of the explosive rise of social media, for some there is a direct link between missing out and an increase in their anxiety levels.
When we spend so much time comparing ourselves to others (and let’s face it, thanks to social media, it’s hard not to!), it’s not surprising we can sometimes feel stuck in a constant FOMO cycle. There is, however, something we can do about it.
Enter JOMO – the Joy Of Missing Out – the vastly underrated counterpart to FOMO.
JOMO is all about stepping away from self-comparison, being content with where you are right now, embracing the integration of life and work and proudly living life in the slow lane. It allows you to unshackle yourself from what you ‘should’ be doing in favour of tuning into what you ‘want’ to do.
But here’s the thing about JOMO – you can’t just flip a switch. To turn FOMO on its head and truly embrace JOMO, you need to intentionally and consistently make a series of changes to your daily habits that will reconnect you to your true self.
Here are some things you can do to have more JOMO in your life:
"STRONGER TOGETHER" is a weekly column where Tanya explores key issues. This week Tanya discusses the impact the cost of living crisis is having on mental health.
By IMPACT Community Services Managing Director Tanya O'Shea
If you are feeling like conversations about the cost of living crisis are consuming our news and social media feeds at the moment you are not alone. A simple Google search will provide you with 2.860 billion results in less than one second. Let’s sit with that for a minute.
2.860 billion pieces of information related to cost of living available to you within 0.44 of a second. Wow, is it any wonder that we are feeling overwhelmed and stressed by this?
Every day, the news headlines scream about interest rate increases, skyrocketing energy bills, reduced consumer spending and the rising cost of groceries. Last year, Suicide Prevention Australia’s State of the Nation Report found that the state of the economy was the number one driver of distress across Australia.
The report ranked the cost of living and personal debt as the biggest risk to rising suicide rates over the next 12 months by both the public and suicide prevention sector. This is the first time an economic issue has overtaken social issues such as drugs, loneliness and family breakdown, and it’s cause for real concern.
We know that the financial strain is real – every Australian is feeling the pinch on their purse strings, having to either find extra money or go without. And while each one of us is living with the daily burden of this additional financial strain, very few consider the toll that it’s having on their mental wellbeing.
Please take a moment to pause and consider whether your own mental wellbeing, or that of someone close to you, is being adversely affected.
Mental wellbeing exists on a continuum, ranging from languishing to flourishing. At first, we might not recognise the symptoms associated with languishing. According to psychologist Adam Grant, some people may have trouble concentrating, perhaps feeling somewhat joyless or aimless. For others, they may experience a sense of stagnation or emptiness. The reality is that currently, 80% of the population can be experiencing languishing at any given point in time. This statistic is unacceptable, so what can we do to change this?
The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health are leading the way in this space, suggesting that a focus on mental wealth can shift the dial. Defined as ‘the collective cognitive and emotional resources of citizens, it includes people’s mental capital, their mental health and wellbeing which underpins the ability to work productively, creatively and build and maintain positive relationships.’ They believe that a mental wealth approach which values the wellbeing of its people will take seriously all levels of human distress, addressing it early with the expectation that it will prevent chronic and costly states of languishing.
There is no silver bullet to addressing the level of languishing being experienced in our community. We do, however, have the best opportunity yet to pull together and consider what we can do to support each other through these difficult times, whether that’s supporting local businesses, sharing what we have with our family, friends and neighbours, or being open to new strategies that will start to capitalise on our nation’s mental wealth.
If you are struggling with your mental health, you’re not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out.
Counselling and Mental Health support
Lifeline: 13 11 44 (24 hours a day)
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 (24 Hours)
Financial Counselling
National debt helpline: 1800 007 007 or www.ndh.org.au
Mob Strong Debt Helpline: 1800 808 488
A free legal advice service about money batters for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from anywhere in Australia.
Please note: This website may contain references to, or feature images, videos, and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have passed away.