Breaking down barriers to mental health support

Breaking through barriers and overcoming self-stigma is a common challenge faced by many healthcare workers when it comes to accessing care or seeking help, as highlighted by The Essential Network (TEN), a platform dedicated to supporting the mental health of Australian health professionals.

Self-stigma can occur when individuals find themselves reluctant to admit their need for assistance, as they don’t want to be perceived as weak or vulnerable by others. Their desire to ‘self-manage’ or maintain their image can sometimes hinder their path to seeking support.

TEN also points out that many healthcare workers often hesitate to seek mental health support due to the fear of being reported to Ahpra. This is despite the fact that reports are quite rare, and the likelihood of losing registration as a result is less than one per cent.

Tragically, a report released earlier this year by Ahpra revealed that between January 2018 and December 2021, 16 health practitioners took their own lives while involved in regulatory processes, while four others attempted suicide or engaged in self-harming behaviours.

This is a distressing statistic, and Optometry Australia is determined to play a proactive role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our members.

3,144 push-ups for mental health

Throughout the month of June, the staff at Optometry Australia will participate in the Push Up Challenge with the goal of increasing awareness of mental health initiatives and raising funds for Lifeline’s suicide prevention hotline.

The goal is to complete 3,144 push-ups – this number sadly represents the number of Australian lives lost to suicide in 2021.

We invite our members and peers across the eye health sector to join our “Eye opt to push up” team, and help raise funds for Lifeline’s important work.

By participating in the challenge, Optometry Australia hopes to create a supportive community and break down the stigma that is so often associated with reaching out for mental health help and support.

Those who wish to join, but who prefer not to do push-ups, are welcome to engage in any alternate health-related activity, such as walking or meditating.

Beyond the challenge

Optometry Australia has always been committed to supporting the mental health, resilience and wellbeing of our members. We have a range of resources, tailored for the optometry profession, some of which include:

• A Member Assistance Program, which provides members with up to three coaching and counselling sessions with trained psychologists over a 12-month period
• Articles written by optometrists on preventing burnout in optometry
• Webcasts and podcasts to help you optimise your physical and mental wellbeing
• A Member Help Desk manned by optometrist advisors to support you in your day-to-day work and practice

Reach out for help

We encourage members who need support to reach out for help if needed.

• Find more Optometry Australia mental health resources here
• Access the TEN platform for health professionals here