It’s never too early, or too late, to seek support

It’s a common misconception that reaching out for help is a sign of weakness. On the contrary, there are numerous benefits to asking for help when needed, and Optometry Australia has a wide array of tailored resources available for all members who may be looking for support.

In light of International Men’s Health Week (12-18 June) this week, we especially encourage males and people who have male partners to seek support if needed.

International Men’s Health Week

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Research conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that a staggering 75% of those who take their own life are male, and according to their National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing report, only about a third (37%) of males with a 12-month mental disorder saw a health professional for their mental health compared with more than half (55%) of females. In 2021, sadly 3,144 Australian lives were lost to suicide; among these, 2,358 were males while 786 females. This may suggest that harmful misconceptions around mental health tend to disproportionately impact males in our society.

Self-stigma among healthcare workers

In addition to this, The Essential Network (TEN) highlights that healthcare workers in particular often face the additional challenge of self-stigma when it comes to seeking assistance for mental health concerns, as they maintain the belief that it reflects weakness or vulnerability.

The impact of self-stigma on healthcare workers is concerning; according to a study conducted in early 2022,more than one in 10 healthcare workers in Australia reported thoughts of suicide or self-harm during the covid-19 pandemic. Adding to this upsetting statistic, a report released earlier this year by Ahpra revealed that between January 2018 and December 2021, 16 health practitioners across the National Scheme took their own lives while involved in regulatory processes, while four others attempted suicide or engaged in self-harming behaviours.

Furthermore, it’s also been reported that, beyond the tragic loss of the person, the impact of suicide deaths are felt by up to 135 people, including family members, work colleagues, friends and first responders at the time of death.

Optometry Australia is concerned by these statistics, and is determined to play a proactive role in supporting the mental health of wellbeing of all our members.

Raising money for Lifeline

Throughout June, Optometry Australia is participating in the Push Up Challenge to raise funds for Lifeline’s suicide prevention hotline.

We have made a commitment to perform 3,144 push-ups, one for every Australian life lost to suicide in 2021.

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

Tailored resources to help support you 

Optometry Australia has always been committed to supporting the mental health of all 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

Lifeline: 13 11 14 available 24/7
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36 available 24/7
MensLine: 1300 78 99 78