Encouraging engagement on mental health

Posted Aug 31, 2016 in Culture

People living with mental ill health are one of the most marginalised in the community. They can feel isolated, and experience poverty, unemployment, stigma and exclusion.

The church is called to reach out to the individuals and families who experience these issues – through advocacy efforts, welcoming communities, and recognising the inadequacies and injustices present in the delivery and support of mental health services.

The Uniting Church in South Australia has had a strong voice in mental health advocacy in the past, through chaplaincy, the work of UnitingCare organisations, and campaigns like “Suicide: it’s no secret”.

This year, the church will launch a new resource to assist congregations and individuals in advocating and supporting those living with mental ill health. Created by the Uniting Church SA and the Community Outreach Mission Network, the mental health booklet will be produced prior to Mental Health Week (9-15 October, 2016).

The booklet provides information on common mental health problems, and outlines strategies for churches to reduce stigma and provide care for those affected by mental ill health. It includes a guide to starting conversations about mental health and information on making referrals to mental health professionals.

Uniting Church SA Moderator Dr Deidre Palmer will present the booklet at an official launch at The Corner Uniting Church on Tuesday 4 October, 9am. The booklet will be available to congregations from this date as a free resource. Church communities and leaders are invited to attend the launch event and engage with this important new resource.

For more information, please contact the Uniting Church SA Justice team on 8236 4201 or email Turn on Javascript!

Need to talk to someone? Contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the SA Mental Health Assessment and Crisis Intervention Service on 13 14 65.

 

Suicide: it’s no secret

The “Suicide: it’s no secret” campaign, held annually around World Suicide Awareness Day (10 September), is one way the Uniting Church SA attempts to reduce the stigma surrouding discussions of suicide and mental ill health.

On Thursday 8 September, Scots Church Adelaide will offer resources and giveaway items in front of their church on North Terrace in Adelaide, engaging students and other passersby.

The “Suicide: it’s no secret” website is an excellent resource for events, training and information relating to suicide and mental ill health, and it also offers liturgies for Blue Christmas events.

For more information about the “Suicide: it’s no secret” campaign, please visit nosecret.org.au or contact the Justice team on 8236 4201 or email Turn on Javascript!

 

Upcoming dates

National or worldwide dates relating to suicide and mental ill health can provide congregations and faith communities with opportunities to engage with these issues and support those grappling with them. The following are just some of the upcoming dates that Uniting Church SA communities may choose to connect with.

R U OK? Day: Friday 9 September

World Suicide Prevention Day: Saturday 10 September

Mental Health Week: Monday 3 – Monday 10 October

World Mental Health Day: Monday 10 October

Blue Knot Day: Monday 24 October

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