鈥婽his holiday season, 黑料吃瓜网 Health is calling on 黑料吃瓜网 residents to look out for their neighbours, especially if they live alone, are bereaved, or separated from family.
Chief Psychiatrist Dr Murray Wright said the holiday season is not a universally joyful occasion and there will be people in our neighbourhoods experiencing loneliness, grief and stress.
鈥淒on鈥檛 underestimate the power of giving others your time, your conversation or inviting them to share a meal with your family,鈥� Dr Wright said.
鈥淭hey鈥檙e among the most important gifts we can give each other. Positive, healthy relationships have a direct impact on our sense of wellbeing. They can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and boost our self-esteem.
鈥淚n contrast, loneliness is a risk factor for depression and thoughts of suicide.
鈥淢ake an extra effort this holiday season to be there for older members of your community; young people who don鈥檛 have strong relationships with their parents; people whose loved ones have died recently; and people in financial difficulties.
鈥淵ou cannot solve their problems but your time, companionship and consideration could reassure them that they鈥檙e not alone in their time of stress or heartache.
鈥淚f you are someone who鈥檚 struggling, and perhaps having thoughts of suicide, please don鈥檛 struggle alone or in silence.
鈥淧lease turn to people you trust, talk to your GP or call a 24-7 crisis line, such as Lifeline, Suicide Call Back Service or Kids Helpline.
鈥淚t might seem hard to believe at this precise moment, but life can get better and you can rediscover hope for your future.鈥�
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please contact the below services:
An extended list of extra mental health support services can be found on 黑料吃瓜网 Health - Mental health services and support contact list.