The Catalytic Foundation supports Mental Health:
Life Matters in Otago have established a community that supports young people around New Zealand suffering with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Navigating the mental health system can be complicated. Research done by Life Matters have found that there are 5 key issues for individuals trying to reach out for help in New Zealand
- Difficulty Accessing Services
- Lack of Compassion
- Lack of Follow-up
- Inadequate support for families and loved ones
- Stigma
Each of these key issues have been identified by Life Matters as reasons for individuals not truly getting the help they need.
Some important advice from Life Matters:
- What to look out for?
If you are worried someone might be thinking about suicide, do not be afraid to ask them directly.
Most people thinking about taking their life will try to let someone know, but they often won’t say this directly.
You may notice:
- Weight loss or gain
- No hope for the future
- Saying they want to die or kill themselves
- They feel worthless, guilty or ashamed
- Stop taking medications
- Hurting themselves
- Becoming obsessed with death
In an emergency or if you feel you or someone you know is at risk, dial 111. To read more about Life Matters CLICK HERE