Jacqui Lambie has opened up about her own mental health battles, urging those struggling to persevere through the hard times they are facing.
The independent Senator known in politics for her fight and conviction has called on those battling mental health issues to stay strong take ‘one step’ forward at a time towards recovery.
The former defence force member has previously made public her past struggles with mental health issues, substance abuse and an attempt to take her own life.
In a video posted on social media ahead of World Mental Health Day this Thursday, Senator Lambie told others: ‘I know how tough it can be’.
“All you guys out there that are suffering with mental health issues … the best thing you can do is … just take one step at a time to get through the day,” she said.
Crossbench Senator Jacqui Lambie. Source: AAP
World Mental Health day attempts to raise awareness around the world against stigma stopping those struggling with mental health issues from seeking support.
It’s a cause Senator Lambie strongly believes in.
“Whatever else you do I just please ask you not to … blame yourself because it just makes your conditions worse,” she said.
Her call for those suffering to stay strong comes as new data released by mental health support group Headspace reveals nearly two-third of young people believe the mental health of younger Australians is getting worse.
Young people cited social media as one of the leading contributors of their concerns (37 per cent) as well as school, family or community (18 per cent) and work and study pressures (16 per cent).
Senator Lambie said those going through a ‘hard time’ must find the strength to keep moving forward.
“I know what it is like when you think you are taking one step forward and then you take two steps backwards,” she said.
“Just because you are … going through a hard time, accept you are … and try and get through it the best way you can.”
“Try not to isolate yourself behind closed doors because that’s the worst thing you can do,” she said.
She urged everyone to be aware of the mental health of those around them.
“If they are not looking real flash for the day … make sure they are okay,” she said.
“Sometimes we do a very good job of hiding them, those of us who have been through that.”
Headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said social media was placing increasing pressure, particularly on young people’s lives.
“We know mental health is complex and there are many factors that contribute to a young person’s well being,” she said.
“But it’s clear … social media is something … that appears to be creating more day to day pressure.”
Senator Lambie said people must remember to keep in mind the ‘injuries on inside’ people are suffering.
“You can’t always see the injuries from the outside sometimes they are on the inside as well.”
“If you pick up something where they are not okay then try and help them out … so they stay on their feet.”
