Carer Assist Advocate Kathy Ross has an analogy she always tells people: If you’re on a plane and the warnings come on, put your oxygen mask on first so you can help other people.
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This is how she paints the issues surrounding mental health support.
In the lead up to Mental Health Month in October, Ms Ross believes that this is the time to look around and assist family and friends.
”A lot of people are already in the role, they are looking out for loved ones that might be going through mental health problems,” she said. “But sometimes people have no idea on how to help that person, and especially help themselves.”
Working for Schizophrenia Fellowship Ms Ross organises a range of work shops and provides information on assisting with challenging conversations, meaningful recovery, mindfulness and finding hope. Workshops are also offered or requested by individuals or families for specific cases.
“Goulburn is a high needs area for mental health and you can tell by the services we have,” she said. “But we are also in high need of carer support.”
A carer can come from all walks of life, age groups or cultural backgrounds. Accessing Carer Assist requires the individual to care about somebody who has a diagnosed mental illness or is experiencing symptoms that might be attribute to mental illness.
If you’re on a plane and the warnings come on, put your oxygen mask on first so you can help other people
- Carer Assist Advocate, Kathy Ross
As an advocate Ms Ross spends most of her time listening to families, referring people to appropriate services and empowering people to navigate the mental health system.
“One of the topics we cover is recovery,” she said. “People need to understand that there is a wear and tear for the family as well.”
Ms Ross, who grew up in Western Australia, remembers being surrounded by adults who suffered from mental health issues.
“I had a parent with chronic depression and one of my friends parents had bipolar, the other schizophrenia,” she said. “It took me a long time to realise that there was help out there.”
Six years ago she took the advocacy role in Goulburn and in the last 12 months has contacted, talked and assisted 281 carers.
“It’s special seeing people revive themselves, especially when they didn’t have much confidence,” she said. “Whilst I help, I have just given them the tools to make informed decisions. I plant the seeds and watch them grow.”
‘Understanding Mental Illness’ is the next workshop organised by Carer Assist in Goulburn. To attend the workshop or for more information contact Kathy on 4822 3173.
