Lived Experience Australia message below:
We’re conscious that there is a lot of messaging and media this week about the very sad events at Bondi Junction in Sydney. Hence, this email is not a ‘media release’ or an eNews. It is simply our family at Lived Experience Australia wanting to connect with you to share some kindness, compassion and support to everyone who lives with mental ill-health and their families. Just like me and my family.
We recognise that these events can create a negative dialogue about mental ill-health within the community; one that looks for immediate answers to what you and all of us at LEA know don’t have simple answers. They are more layered and involve several points over time where systems and circumstances could and should have been different and better. People are not defined by their mental health or ill-health. There are some things we may never know regarding what led to this tragic event.
So much of the dialogue and support messaging of the last few days has focused on distress and crisis options and encouraging people to ‘feel safe’. Whilst these things are important and understandable, we know that this can also inadvertently reinforce negative stereotypes that are less than helpful. As a very wise friend reminded me this morning, none of these are de-escalating responses, and they may well reinforce stigmatising views.
There is always more that governments and those who deliver mental health services and supports can do. There is also more that every person in the community can do to learn more about mental health, be more tolerant, build more humane connections with others, support each other, and address stigma when you see it.
It’s important to us at LEA that we use language that does not further stigmatise complex mental illness and the families, carers, and kin that support individuals who are experiencing this. It is also vitally important that we continue to advocate for improved supports so individuals do not fall through the gaps and are able to access the care and support they need.
Our thoughts are with each person that has been affected by these events whether directly or indirectly. If you are finding things upsetting or distressing we firstly encourage you to consider actions that support your wellbeing.
Find the things that - in your experience - have brought you comfort, care or support in the past. It may be as simple as connecting with someone who knows you well enough to realise how distressing this situation could be for you. Catch up with a friend. Speak with your mental health professional/s if that is something that works for you. Maybe take a walk out in nature if that brings you comfort. Turn off the TV (and other devices) that include content that doesn’t lift your spirits.
If you are feeling particularly overwhelmed, and your normal supports aren’t helping, we have included a number of support line options below this letter. We encourage you to contact them if you or a loved one is experiencing distress.
Please know that we will continue to advocate for mental health care that is appropriate, adequate and affordable for all Australians. We will work hard to destigmatise mental ill-health, and educate our communities towards compassion and understanding.
But right now in this moment, we want you to know that we see you and care about you.
Please take care - of yourself, and those you love.
