The Disability Information and Resource Centre

INVITATION TO ATTEND

National Mental Health State Consultation Workshop

Hosted by the Mental Health Council of Australia and

Mental Health Coalition of South Australia

Hotel Grand Chancellor, Adelaide on Hindley

Monday 15 April 2013, 9.30 – 4.00pm

In the lead up to the Federal Budget and a Federal Election in 2013, and following COAG’s recent decision to establish indicators to monitor the progress of national mental health reform, the Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) is conducting consultation workshops with members and stakeholders in all states and territories throughout April to ascertain short and long-term priorities for the sector.

The aim of these workshops is to identify areas where the MHCA and its members can capitalise on their unique position as advocates to progress mental health reform and improve the lives of people affected by mental illness in Australia.

You can register to attend by following THIS LINK

(Sponsored by the Black Dog Institute) As more Australians turn to the internet for medical help, a new government funded website is offering tools and tips to those battling anxiety and depression.

As anyone who has a disability or works with people who do, anxiety and depression are often secondary to the more obvious disability and something we all need to be vigilant about. The interactive website MyCompass is designed to help people suffering anxiety, stress or depression who may not seek help because of lack of time, lack of access to face-to-face services or a fear of being stigmatised.

The website offers an interactive program that includes online psychological tools, round-theclock monitoring of moods and behaviours and motivational tips via email and SMS. As the developer says, “It’s easy to use and simple to understand so you can improve your long term mental health while you’re waiting for a bus or having lunch.” Something for the more than three million Australians who will experience some form of mental illness each year, with the majority of cases involving anxiety or depression. If this is you, or you know someone who could benefit, have a look here:

www.mycompass.org.au

The ACEDA Annual General Meeting will take place on Saturday 13th October from 1pm – 3pm.

The venue will be the ACEDA meeting room at the rear of their premises at 589 South Rd, Everard Park.

ACEDA board members will be in attendance providing members with the opportunity to discuss ACEDA’s future direction and past achievements.

RSVP by phoning 8297 4088 or emailing aceda@aceda.org.au.

Adult clients registered with Autism SA and their parents are welcome to participate in a therapeutic group aimed at more efficiently managing mental health problems such as anxiety, stress, addictions, depression, self-harm, burn out and more. You will learn mindfulness skills to change your relationship with your symptoms so that they no longer hold you back from creating a meaningful life.

The group will run for 10 sessions from 23 April to 29 June at Autism SA. Please contact Monica Terreri on (08) 8462 0618 or Greg Healy on (08) 8462 0617 if you are interested.

beyondblue has developed the first of a series of FREE interactive e-learning programs designed to be used in the workplace. The Workplace Mental Health Awareness e-learning Program examines myths and misconceptions about depression and anxiety disorders, aiming to increase awareness and understanding. The e-learning program also looks at signs and symptoms, and how to help someone you’re concerned about.

Check out how much you know (or don’t know) about depression and anxiety at www.beyondblue.org.au/workplace.