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Losing a job can feel like your world has turned upside down. It’s more than just the financial strain; it’s an emotional journey filled with a whirlwind of feelings that can leave you grappling for stability. You may go through episodes of depression, extreme anxiety, loss of sleep or tiredness as you feel the need to negate rest in efforts to quickly obtain another job, or you may stay in bed all day unable to move and cope with your reality. The immediate aftermath can be overwhelming, painful, and frustrating, but through it all it's essential to recognize that this experience can be the unknown catalyst that's needed for profound personal growth and self-discovery. The Emotional Impact of Losing a Job When the news hits about losing a job, it's like a punch to the gut. Initially, you may experience shock, which can be quickly followed by overwhelming emotions such as anger, sadness, confusion, and even regret. Your daily life shifts dramatically, leaving you feeling unsettled and anxious. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that over 60% of people experience significant emotional distress after losing their job. Despair can set in as you begin to confront the reality of your situation. Sleepless nights may become common as thoughts of finances, the future, and self-worth race through your mind. You might question your skills and abilities, wondering if you made enough of a contribution at your previous workplace. A recent report indicated that 60% of laid-off workers reconsider their career choices during this time. An empty chair can represent feelings of loss and solitude. Anxiety often follows, making each day feel heavy. Concerns about finding a new job arise, the strain on your finances, and the uncertainty of the future can weigh heavily on your mind. Loneliness may also creep in. You could withdraw from friends and family because you’re unsure how to express your feelings. This isolation only reinforces sadness and can lead to deeper issues like depression if left unchecked. Instead of trying to push these feelings away, telling yourself life goes on and you have no time to settle, acknowledging these feelings is essential. It is okay to feel sad or anxious, and accepting your emotions is the first step in processing the mental and emotional state that comes from losing a job. Furthermore, recognizing that you are not alone can provide the comfort you need to push through. Many others share similar experiences and helping or confiding in each other can help lessen your emotional burden. Prioritizing Mental Health After Job Loss As you navigate these emotional waves, focusing on and prioritizing your mental health is vital. While it's more than okay to feel your feelings and take the time you need to yourself, realizing that your job loss doesn't define who you are and what you're truly capable of can push you to the mental balance you need to maintain and make it through to the other side of a temporary situation. Naturally, when you're in the thick of things, it's hard to fathom how to take care of yourself or where to even begin, so we've come up with some effective strategies to help keep your mind engaged and positive: Establish a Routine Creating structure in your day is incredibly beneficial. Without a job, days can blur together, leading to aimlessness and possible feelings of inadequacies. Telling yourself that you're not doing enough and need to do better. Establish a regular wake-up time and allocate specific tasks throughout the day. Dedicate time to job searching or engaging in hobbies. This type of consistent schedule helps restore a sense of normalcy. Engage in Physical Activity Your physical health is closely linked to your mental well-being. Even a simple daily walk can release endorphins that enhance your mood. You might consider joining a local fitness class or trying a new hobby like dancing or yoga. Regular exercise grounds you and boosts your spirits, offering a break from negative thoughts that may occur. A peaceful park setting inspires mental clarity and calmness. Mindfulness and Meditation Practicing mindfulness or meditation can create space for reflection and emotional clarity. Use guided meditations or apps to develop a practice that works for you. Just 15 minutes of meditation each day can significantly reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Journaling can also be a powerful aid, as writing down your thoughts and feelings can reveal insights hidden under stress. Connect with Others It's important to combat feelings of isolation by reaching out to friends, family, or support groups. There are several online forums and community spaces through sites such as Meetup, Facebook, or Self where job seekers gather. Connecting with people who understand your struggles can lighten the emotional load. Meetup - https://www.meetup.com/topics/unemployment-support/ Self - https://www.self.com/story/online-support-groups Staying Emotionally Healthy During Transition Emotional health is just as crucial as your mental and physical health during such a significant transition. Here are some ways to maintain balance: Embrace Your Feelings Allow yourself to feel whatever you're feeling. Suppressing emotions can lead to explosive reactions later that can cause harm to yourself or those around you. Acknowledge your sadness, fear, or frustration. Speak these feelings aloud or write them down to release some of the burden. Set Small Goals During uncertain times, setting achievable goals gives you a sense of purpose. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the job search, break it into parts. For instance, set a goal to update your resume, research three job markets, or connect with a set number of people each week. These smaller victories help rebuild your confidence. Seek Professional Help If feelings of anxiety or depression become unmanageable, consider talking to a counselor or therapist. Professional support can provide you with tailored coping mechanisms. Always remember, seeking help is a sign of strength and it's okay to look for guidance from a trained professional. Nurturing Physical Well-Being Physical health significantly impacts your emotional stability, especially during stressful periods. Here are ways to support your body while coping with job loss: Maintain a Balanced Diet Your diet plays a critical role in your physical health. Aiming for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins can keep you feeling physically healthy and mentally strong. If you want to get fancy, you can try a smoothie from your local smoothie spot or make one at home yourself! If possible, avoid junk food; it may provide temporary comfort, but can usually lead to energy crashes and mood swings. Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is linked to better mood regulation. Carry a water bottle and keep a fluid intake in check. Simple actions like drinking enough water can greatly improve your health. Pay Attention to Sleep Sleep is crucial during stressful times. Lack of rest can worsen feelings of anxiety and depression, easily causing you to feel like you're sinking into a hole that you won't be able to climb out of. Develop a calming bedtime routine that your body can perform like clockwork—try reading, light stretching, and even using calming noises such as nature sounds or rain to put your mind at ease and relax your body into a deep sleep. YouTube and Apple Music offer a wide variety of playlists and videos made for such occasions. Things to avoid as part of your bedtime routine, excessive screentime from your phone, tv, or tablet device. Large amounts of screentime before bed can disrupt your body's natural wake-sleep cycle due to the blue light emitted from the screen. This blue light acts a suppression for the production of melatonin, which is your body's hormone that's responsible for making you sleepy. Fostering Spiritual Health for Overall Balance You might overlook spiritual well-being in challenging times, but nurturing this area can enhance your overall resilience. Even if you aren't a spiritual person, there are still subtle things you can practice to help maintain this balance: Practice Gratitude Gratitude shifts our focus from loss to appreciation. It's very easy to tally up all the things we feel we're missing, but taking into consideration the things we still have can change our perspectives entirely. To aid with this, consider keeping a gratitude journal to note daily reflections on what you are thankful for. Begin by listing at least three positive things each day, no matter how small. Over time, you'll be surprised how this practice fosters a more optimistic mindset. Spend Time in Nature Nature can be a powerful healer. Spending time outdoors connects you to something greater and distills worry. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, a hike in the mountains, a walk with your dog, or even taking time to sit in a chair outside and read a book, immersing yourself in nature can refresh your outlook on life and your current situation. Reflect and Reconnect Take time for self-reflection to uncover your values and passions. Engaging in activities like meditation, reading inspiring texts/social media posts, or volunteering can fill you with a renewed sense of purpose. These practices can provide clarity and lift your spirits to new heights. A tranquil lake encourages reflection and inner peace. Finding Your Path Forward Losing a job is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences anyone can face, feeling like an emotional rollercoaster that will never end. It's perfectly normal to feel lost, anxious, or alone; many who go through this experience share these feelings. Don't push these feelings away or try to suppress them, just feel them. Take a bit of time to yourself each day and simply be with them. Validating your emotions is the first step toward healing and rebuilding. By prioritizing your mental health, establishing a routine, connecting with others, and nurturing your emotional and physical well-being, navigating through this transition won't feel next to impossible. Embracing these strategies will empower you to enter the next chapter of your life with renewed confidence and strength. Remember, while it may seem difficult right now and like this moment will never end, you are not out for the count. Your worth is not determined by what job you hold, your worth and capabilities are immeasurable. Every ending signifies a new beginning filled with endless possibilities. Even if and when you feel like you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel or the greener grass ahead, hold onto hope and give yourself the grace you need to heal and balance during this time. Take one step forward each day, no matter how small and know that what is meant for you is already on its way.

Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses characterized by persistent disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions. They significantly impact physical and mental health, and early intervention is crucial for successful recovery. This blog post will delve into three prevalent eating disorders – anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder – exploring their characteristics, management strategies, and when to seek professional help. Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, leading to severely restricted energy intake relative to requirements. Individuals with anorexia often have a distorted body image, perceiving themselves as overweight even when severely underweight. This relentless pursuit of thinness can lead to significant health complications, including: Severe weight loss : Often resulting in dangerously low body mass index (BMI). Nutritional deficiencies: Leading to fatigue, weakness, and organ damage. Electrolyte imbalances: Potentially life-threatening complications affecting heart function. Amenorrhea : Cessation of menstruation in females. Osteoporosis : Weakening of bones due to lack of calcium and other essential nutrients. Bulimia Nervosa Bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain. These compensatory behaviors can include self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, or excessive exercise. While individuals with bulimia may maintain a normal weight or may fluctuate, the cycle of bingeing and purging takes a significant toll on their physical and mental well-being: Electrolyte imbalances : Leading to heart problems, potentially fatal. Tooth decay and enamel erosion: Due to the acidity of vomit. Esophageal tears : From repeated vomiting. Dehydration: From purging behaviors. Depression and anxiety : Often co-occurring with bulimia. Binge-Eating Disorder Binge-eating disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors like purging. Individuals with BED experience a loss of control during these episodes, consuming large amounts of food in a short period. This can lead to: Weight gain and obesity: Increasing the risk of related health problems. Type 2 diabetes : Due to insulin resistance. High blood pressure: Increasing cardiovascular risk. High cholesterol: Contributing to heart disease. Depression and anxiety: Often co-occurring with BED. Managing Eating Disorders Recovery from an eating disorder is a complex process that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Effective treatment typically involves: Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are commonly used to address distorted thinking patterns, emotional regulation, and coping mechanisms. Family-based therapy (FBT) is often effective for adolescents with anorexia. Nutritional Counseling: Registered dietitians work with individuals to develop healthy eating plans that address nutritional deficiencies and promote a balanced relationship with food. Medical Monitoring: Physicians monitor physical health, addressing any medical complications and ensuring nutritional stability. Medication: In some cases, medication may be used to treat co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). When to Get Help Seeking professional help is crucial for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. Don't wait until the situation becomes life-threatening. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of successful recovery. Signs that warrant immediate professional help include: Significant weight loss or gain Frequent vomiting or laxative abuse Obsessive preoccupation with food, weight, or body shape Withdrawal from social activities Low energy levels and fatigue Mood swings and irritability Thoughts of self-harm or suicide Resources National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD): https://anad.org/ The Emily Program: https://emilyprogram.com/ Your primary care physician or mental health professional. Recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right support and treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for help today. Your life is valuable, and recovery is within reach.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder, please know that you are not alone. These challenging mental health conditions can profoundly impact one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, but with the right care and support, recovery is possible. In this post, we'll provide an overview of schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, offer guidance on effective management strategies, and emphasize the importance of reaching out for professional help. Our goal is to foster greater understanding, reduce stigma, and empower you on your journey towards healing and wellness. Schizophrenia Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech and thinking, and a lack of motivation or emotional expression. Symptoms typically emerge in the late teens to early 20s, though they can occur at any age. Some of the most common symptoms of schizophrenia include: Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there) Delusions (firmly held false beliefs) Disorganized speech and thought patterns Lack of motivation or reduced emotional expression Social withdrawal and difficulty functioning in daily life Schizoaffective Disorder Schizoaffective disorder is a related condition that involves a combination of schizophrenia symptoms and mood disorder symptoms, such as mania or depression. Individuals with schizoaffective disorder experience psychotic episodes, as well as distinct mood episodes. The key distinction is that schizoaffective disorder includes a major mood component, in addition to the psychotic symptoms seen in schizophrenia. Symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but may include: Hallucinations and delusions Mood swings between mania and depression Changes in energy levels, sleep, and appetite Impaired social and occupational functioning Managing Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders Effective treatment and management of schizophrenia spectrum disorders often involves a comprehensive approach, including: Medication: Antipsychotic medications are typically the first line of treatment to help control psychotic symptoms. Finding the right medication and dosage is crucial, as it can take time to get the right fit. Therapy: Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals develop coping strategies, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and improve day-to-day functioning. Psychosocial Interventions: Programs that focus on social skills training, supported employment, and family education can provide crucial support and resources. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and stress management techniques can all positively impact the course of the disorder. When to Seek Help If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder, it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Early intervention is key to managing symptoms, preventing complications, and improving long-term outcomes. Reach out to your primary care physician or a mental health specialist to get properly evaluated and develop an appropriate treatment plan. With the right support and self-care strategies, individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder can live independently, maintain meaningful relationships, and thrive. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. Help is available, and recovery is possible. By taking the first step and seeking support, you're honoring your strength and resilience in the face of these challenges.

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The World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) Global organization that promotes mental health awareness, prevention of mental disorders, advocacy, and best practice recovery-focused interventions worldwide. Global Mental Health Peer Network (GMHPN) Builds capacity among people with lived experience of a mental health condition through empowerment, mentorship, and support. BasicNeeds Works to improve the lives of people with mental health conditions and psychosocial disabilities in low- and middle-income countries. To Write Love on Her Arms A non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery. Saprea An organization dedicated to liberating individuals and society from child sexual abuse and its lasting impacts. International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) Helping those impacted by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders to live full and productive lives. Alliance of Hope for Suicide Loss Survivors A leading online source of support for people who are coping with the devastating loss of a loved one to suicide.

National Resources The Butterfly Foundation Supports people affected by eating disorders and body image issues, as well as their families, friends, and communities Blue Knot Foundation Supports people affected by complex trauma, including their families, friends, and communities. LifeLine Provides access to crisis counselling, depression and anxiety support, stress management strategies and self-help tools. Black Dog Institute A not-for-profit, educational, research, clinical and community-oriented facility offering specialist expertise in depression and bipolar disorder. Their website features a host of resources and links, up-to-date research and information on community programs and getting help. Kids HelpLine Australia’s only free (even from a mobile), confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. 1800 55 1800 Equally Well AU An initiative funded by the National Mental Health Commission working to improve the physical health people living with mental illness QLife Provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. Al-Anon Family Groups Australia A peer support organisation for families and friends of alcoholics, to help them recover from the effects of living with someone with a drinking problem. 1300 252 666 ThisWayUp Online evidence-based programs to help improve the way you feel. Mind Spot Supports Australian adults with free, confidential psychological assessments and treatments, and access to qualified therapists. StandBy Dedicated to supporting people and communities across Australia bereaved or impacted by suicide, by providing a coordinated response of support and assistance and a single point of contact to assist in coordinating existing services to provide a response. 0421 725 180. Relationships Australia Leading provider of relationship support services for individuals, families and communities. They aim to support all people in Australia to achieve positive and respectful relationships. 13Yarn 13YARN is the first national crisis support line for people who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. They offer a confidential one-on-one yarning opportunity with a Lifeline-trained Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter who can provide crisis support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week LGBTQIA+ Health Australia Working to improve the mental health and well-being of the LGBTQIA+ Community in Australia. Reach Out Provides free digital mental health and well-being resources for young people and their parents in Australia SANE Australia Supports people with complex mental health issues, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and psychosis, as well as their families and friends. BeyondBlue The national depression initiative, providing comprehensive online information on the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety and how to help someone. MensLine AU A free telephone and online counselling service offering support for Australian men anywhere, anytime. 1300 78 99 78 Suicide CallBack Service A free nationwide service providing 24/7 phone and online counselling to people affected by suicide. 1300 659 467 Flourish Australia Helps people with a lived experience feel supported and meet their everyday challenges Headspace AUS National Youth Mental Health Foundation, providing early intervention mental health services to 12 - 25 year old. AA Australia A peer support organisation for people with a drinking problem. 1300 222 222 1800 Respect Available for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support people impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. 1800 737 732 Open Arms (Veterans & Families Counselling) Provides free and confidential, nation-wide counselling and support for war and service-related mental health conditions, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. They also provide relationship and family counselling to address issues that can arise due to the unique nature of military service. During business hours call 1800 011 046. Outside business hours 1800 628 036 connects you with the Department of Defence Mental Health All-hours Support Line. Mood Gym An interactive self-help book which helps you to learn and practise skills which can help to prevent and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mission Australia Mission Australia delivers homelessness crisis and prevention services, provides social and affordable housing, assists struggling families and children, addresses mental health issues, fights substance dependencies, supports people with disability and much more. Grief Line Discover connection and support at your fingertips. The directory helps you find groups and organisations that foster community and belonging. Whether you’re seeking friends, shared experiences, or like-minded individuals, you’ll find opportunities to engage with a welcoming and inclusive community. Explore listings for activities, support, and connections, both in-person and online. Helpline 1300 845 745 8am to 8pm: 7 days (AEST)