OPINION: Think Mental Health Round is an important starting point towards improving regional mental health

This article might be confronting for some readers, however its purpose is to provide an accurate account of what living with mental health issues can be like. The SWFL is again coordinating “Think Mental Health Round” this weekend, which I firmly believe along with “Talk to a Mate” are two of the more significant weekends of the regular season — aside from Indigenous Round — which is the most important. I owe my life to sport, literally. On three occasions in the past when I have questioned my will to live, a sporting contact within my network of friends has sensed something wrong and called me. Instead of delivering a lecture or dismissing my concerns, these three individuals have quickly alerted me to a pressing sporting event which they insist I attend. “I will be calling you tomorrow morning at 8am and expect you to answer, ready to be picked up,” one said. Fortunately, I’ve somewhat past these dark days and been able to improve my mindset through cognitive distortion therapy, medication and regularly speaking with people who not only I trust, but those who challenge my words and hold me accountable. I implore everyone reading this — don’t let things get to the stage I did. There is no shame in getting help, whether it be temporarily through a doctor, counsellor or friend. If you know certain foods or drinks make things worse for you emotionally, avoid them. Explain to people why and the majority of people will understand. Concepts such as “Think Mental Health Round” are positive and regional sporting clubs have come a long way in terms of recognising the rise in mental health issues. Sadly in regional areas, wait times to see a psychologist or counsellor can be long, which means a trip to Perth, depending on what is needed. I encourage everyone to be as open as possible across the weekend about how they are travelling mentally, as one conversation can be the difference for some people. If you or someone you know are presently battling with a mental health issue and need assistance, please phone Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.