This year the theme is ‘Building Resilience: Communities and Connections’.

It is important to recognise the people and places where we feel safe, seen and heard, as these environments have a positive impact on our mental health. 

It is key that we make it a priority to check in with family, friends and neighbours and have open conversations about how they are feeling and generally keep in touch by talking regularly, so they feel supported and feel like they have someone to talk to if they are struggling.

Mental health care for older Australians can be accessed through general practitioners, specialized Older People’s Mental Health Services (OPMHS), national helplines like Beyond Blue and Lifeline, digital resources such as Mindspot, and My Aged Care for aged care support.

A GP can provide a mental health treatment plan and referrals to specialists, while OPMHS offer tailored, comprehensive support for age-related conditions like depression, anxiety, and dementia-related behaviours. National services provide immediate support and connection to local resources, and My Aged Care can help navigate other support services.

For immediate support or a mental health crisis, call Lifeline at 13 11 14.
Beyond Blue (1300 22 46 36) offers support for depression and anxiety.
Black Dog Institute website is a great resource if you are struggling
www.blackdoginstitute.org.au