Mental illness will happen to people you know

• Mental health is a huge issue in our community
• One in five Australians experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime
• Many people facing mental health challenges are unsung heros, facing challenges many of us never even consider. Imagine if you had an illness that affects your:
  • focus / thoughts
  
  
  • sleep patterns
  
  
  • diet
  
  
  • relationships
  
  
  • employment
  
  
  • personal care
  
  
  • freedom

All Cornelia Rau did was fall ill - have you ever fallen ill?

• Many of these people are discovering ways to recreate a new lifestyle, new hopes and new directions
• People deserve support and acknowledgment for developing new ways of living, handling stress and maintaining healthy lifestyles
• Everyone's journey of recovery is different and often very personal
• People have different experiences of the mental health system - some find their medication and health professionals incredibly helpful - others do not
• Some people with mental illness claim that family support, peer support and community engagement is just as important as 'treatment'

• You have the power to play a role
• People recovering from mental illness need to love and respect like everyone else
• Metal health professionals cannot offer a sense of community
• Communities and relationships are important for recovery
• Community inclusion doesn't mean we don't set boundaries or challenge people - these things are important for all of us ...

If you know someone in your family or neighbourhood who is struggling with, or recovering from mental illness, you can play a strategic role by extending a hand of friendship or offering everyday acceptance