WA Mental Health Week 2021: focus on our children, shout-out to our incredible workforce

Mental Health Week 2021 begins today, and Western Australians are encouraged to take part in activities being held across the State that showcase the support and resources available to help them nurture their child’s mental health and wellbeing.

This year’s Mental Health Week theme is ‘Mental health starts with our children.’ Early childhood is a critical time for brain development and functioning. Childhood experiences build the foundations of lifelong resilience, social and emotional wellbeing, and self-esteem. These are key for children to develop into compassionate, confident people.

This is also an ideal opportunity for everyone to stop, think and choose to make their own mental health a priority. This allows us to take better care of the people around us, including our children.

Mental Health Week is also a time to celebrate the dedication and commitment of Western Australia’s incredible mental health workforce: psychologists, psychiatrists, GPs, mental health social workers, mental health nurses and liaison officers, non-clinical workers and lived experience and peer workers, educators, early learning professionals, social workers, youth workers, carers and community leaders – all make a huge difference to the health and wellbeing of our community.

The McGowan Government is committed to prioritising the mental health of Western Australians, investing a record $1.114 billion in mental health and alcohol and other drug services this year.

For practical resources and helpful tips to support children, or to find a local Mental Health Week event, visit https://www.mentalhealthweek.org.au

For mental health and wellbeing information go to https://www.thinkmentalhealthwa.com.au

To find a support service in your local area, visit your GP or https://www.myservices.org.au

For immediate support call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 for free counselling. In a crisis situation call Lifeline on 13 11 14. In a medical emergency call 000.

As stated by Mental Health Minister Stephen Dawson:

“This Mental Health Week, Western Australians are encouraged to consider how we can best support our children’s mental health and wellbeing, to help them lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

“Our children and young people are the future of our State, and each of us has a responsibility to contribute to a community where they can thrive.

“This week is also a reminder to take care of ourselves, in order to effectively take care of and support our children. Being a parent can be tough, but there is free support available for parents and caregivers.

“Importantly, this is a time to recognise the huge contribution our mental health workforce makes to the wellbeing of our community. Your passion and commitment each and every day is inspiring and we thank you.”