On this year's World Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day, we explore the importance of early intervention and seeking the right support for the youngest people in our society.

The 7th of April brings around World Mental Health Day once again! Health is a broad topic that can be overwhelming and intimidating to many people, making it seem hard to maintain on top of your work, social life, and family duties. However, there are 5 healthy habits you can incorporate into your daily routine to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Sleep like it’s a priority! Health and sleep go hand in hand, and to feel your best you need to ensure you get a good night’s sleep. A good night’s sleep allows your body to rest and recharge for the following day, boosting both your physical and mental health. To ensure your get a good night’s rest, consider creating a sleep pattern where you go to sleep and wake up at the same every day. While it’s tempting to scroll on your phone or binge watch TV, sticking to a sleep routine helps your body get into a pattern and boosts your mood. Prep like a meal master Healthy meals are time consuming to make, and takeout often feels like the easiest solution after a long day’s work. This is great occasionally; however, they do lack the nutrients your body needs which is where meal prepping comes in! Meal prepping just once a week allows you to keep on track of eating healthy lunches and dinners, boosting both your physical and mental wellbeing, as a balanced diet is linked to improving mood and boosting energy. Sweat in snippets! A full body workout everyday can be overwhelming, but the trick is not to focus on getting in a 2-hour workout every day! Instead aim for 10 minutes here and there, like walking on your lunch breaks or stretching in between work tasks. Even wearing ankle weights while cooking will allow you to be exercising while doing daily tasks! Working out in small bursts is a good way to maintain your physical health and is also seen to boost your mood. Drink up buttercup! Aim to drink a litre of water a day. It’s a simple task that’s easy to forget, but a simple trick is to take a sip every time you pick up your phone. This creates a habit of drinking water every time you’re scrolling on TikTok or texting someone and will help you reach your hydration goal. It’s important to drink water as it helps maintain a healthy body and maintain its functions, so it’s time to drink up buttercup! Pause and breathe If you’re busy working all day, it’s easy to forget to check in with yourself. To solve this problem, set health breaks on your phone that will remind you every few hours. Take just 5 minutes to step away - go for a quick walk or pause to breathe and recharge. It’s a simple way to look after your wellbeing throughout the day and get you moving a little bit, so you’re not stuck in same spot all day. Good Wellbeing Starts Today With such a busy schedule, maintaining your health can be an afterthought. However, these 5 healthy habits aim to incorporate looking after one’s physical and mental health into your daily routine. Download the Supportive Mind app to prioritise your wellbeing In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for yourself can be tough. The Supportive Mind is here to change that. With features designed to help you stay active, track your mood, and access personalised wellness resources, our app is the perfect companion to ensure your mental and physical health come first. Download today: https://www.mhfa.org.au/supportive-mind By Jamie Speight

On the 2nd of April, we come together to celebrate World Autism Understanding Day. As many people in our community with Autism, it is important to understand how you can support someone to make them feel comfortable. World Autism Understanding Day is not only about understanding Autism but also taking actions to be a supportive person to those around you. What is Autism? Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, interacts with others, and experiences their environment, according to Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect). People who have Autism may have different preferences regarding social interactions, a heightened sensory awareness, have different communication preferences compared to neurotypical people, have many strengths, and are honest, loyal, and kind people. This year's World Autism Understanding Day is delivered in partnership with communities to create a supportive and more inclusive society so people with Autism can feel more comfortable navigating the world. By creating more understanding about Autism, we can challenge myths and misconceptions regarding Autism to create meaningful changes so Autistic people can have the same opportunities and support as everyone else. Common Myths and Misconceptions Autism only affects males - Autism can affect any gender. Whilst males are most commonly diagnosed, females are often diagnosed at a later point in life. People with Autism lack empathy – Autistic people do experience all emotions including empathy; however, they may show and regulate empathy differently compared to neurotypical people. Autistic people are anti-social – Just like everyone, Autistic people still desire social connections and want to create meaningful relationships. Whilst sometimes social interactions and situations can be challenging for Autistic people, this does not mean they do not want to socialise and create connections. Ways to support people with Autism It is important to understand that people with Autism may experience the world differently compared to neurotypical people. By showing you care for and are willing to support Autistic people, you can help them to feel more comfortable within society and themselves. Encourage inclusivity in group settings – Make sure to make invites to group activities clear to Autistic people. Take some time to explain to them what is going to happen to make sure they feel comfortable. Do not force any social interactions but instead help them feel at ease within any group setting. Keep things clear and simple – Sometimes people on the Autism spectrum take things to heart or have difficulty picking up on social cues. Keep your communication clear and your language direct, and do not be disheartened if they are repeating things you have said to them, they are just trying to make sure that they understood what you said correctly. Respect personal space – Individuals on the autism spectrum may have different preferences regarding personal space and touch. It is important to communicate and ask people with Autism their preferences and always ask for consent before initiating any physical contact. Make sure to be mindful of any physical boundaries and do not be disheartened if they say no, they’ll appreciate you asking and listening to what their preferences are. Watch out for overwhelming situations – People on the Autism spectrum can get overwhelmed by sights, sounds, and smells, especially within a busy or large place due to their heightened sensory awareness. Be sure to look out for this, and if this happens try to move them to somewhere less overwhelming so they can have some time to process their surroundings. Create a safe space for them where they feel comfortable talking about their desires and needs, so they can be their authentic selves. Adjustments can include dimming lights and reducing background noise, which can help people with Autism to feel safe and secure again. With a better understanding of what Autism is and how to support within your community, you can help to make them feel more comfortable and have the same opportunities as neurotypical people. Importantly, while we continue to celebrate World Autism Understanding Day, make sure to continue to understand and support individuals with autism every day of the year to make a more inclusive and comfortable world. By Holly Johns

In a world where life is increasingly becoming more challenging, it is more important now than ever to make sure you are being supportive to your partner. When you are being a supportive partner, you are able to grow, learn and become stronger together. There are many different ways you can show support to your partner, and tailor the support you give them to their needs. Listen to your partner As simple as it seems, listening effectively to the needs and wants of your partner can help you to be supportive of them. You are able to tailor your actions to them, providing a more accurate response to their desires. To show you are listening to them and giving your full attention, make sure to stop any distracting tasks that may interfere with being fully present in the moment. Offer encouraging words Showing support to your partner by encouraging them with words provides a sense of belonging. A simple ‘you have got this’ can make a world of difference, allowing your partner to feel empowered. Encourage new challenges and dreams It is natural as time goes on and you spend more time together, the desires and needs of your partner changes. It is important to acknowledge that this is perfectly fine, and to give your partner plenty of support and advice while they navigate new challenges and dreams in their lives. Spend quality time together Whilst life can get busy, it is always important to ensure you and your partner spend quality time together, away from the stressors of life. Show initiative and be the one to arrange a dinner, movie night, or even a small getaway to show your support and love for one another. Be empathetic Being able to understand your partner's emotions and feelings will help you to be able to support them more beneficially. Let them vent their feelings to you and show empathy to them, so they know you are truly there for them in tough moments. Be willing to communicate Communicating how you feel shows respect and trust for your partner. Communication builds an open and honest relationship, so your partner never has to second-guess themselves. Express gratitude It is important to vocalise what you love and appreciate about your partner. By showing you are grateful for their actions and help, this allows them to feel supported and valued within the relationship. Apologise It is important to acknowledge when you are in the wrong, even though sometimes it may not always be easy to do this. By apologising, it lets your partner know that you are actively reflecting on your actions to becoming a better and more supportive person. It is important to be supportive to your partner to increase overall satisfaction in your relationship. By fostering a supportive environment in your relationship, this helps you and your partner to build trust and respect – two very important aspects in a relationship. Support makes people feel valued and safe, which is desirable for so many of us. Being a supportive partner shows you value your relationship, but most importantly, shows that you care. By Holly Johns

When it comes to asking for help, many of us hesitate. But why? Why do we hold back when we don’t even know how others will respond? The answer could be a simple "yes" or perhaps a "no," but regardless, it’s always worth asking.

When we think of Valentine’s Day, we often find ourselves thinking about either a bouquet of roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and the idea of celebrating love with a special someone. But what if, this year, the most important Valentine you could celebrate is the one you see in the mirror? Self-love is often overlooked however is the foundation for healthy relationships, emotional resilience and overall mental wellbeing.

As we approach International Men’s Day, I've been reflecting on my mental well-being and how I nurture healthy relationships - with others and myself. For me, movement is key. I love the feeling of challenging myself; each session is a personal competition, whether an early morning gym workout or a run after work. When I feel good in my body, I feel good in my mind. But things weren’t always like this. I didn’t enjoy school, and I faced many mental struggles. Then, one day after school, my dad said, “Come on, we’re going to the gym.” I was 14 at the time, and I never imagined that exercise could change me. But it did, and in ways I couldn’t have expected. Training gave me control over one part of my life at a time when I felt I had none. By focusing on what I could control, exercise opened a whole new world for me - a world of personal development and community. What is Personal Development? Personal development involves the intentional act of investing in yourself. It’s a powerful process that can positively transform how we view ourselves and the world around us (UK College of Personal Development, 2024). Personal development activities enable you to grow your skills, knowledge, and confidence. I regularly take on activities that push me beyond my comfort zone, allowing me to grow. I train at the gym and go for runs, take ice baths, read books, and I’m learning to cook. Additionally, I am nurturing my relationship with myself by learning to say no to people and setting healthier boundaries. Lastly, I’m strengthening my relationships with friends and family by spending quality time with them. How Does Exercise Help Mental Health? Exercise and mental health go hand in hand. Exercise can boost your mood, concentration and alertness. It can even help give you a positive outlook on life. Exercise influences the release of brain chemicals that impact your mood. After exercising, you’ll often feel more focused, emotionally stable, and happier due to increased serotonin, which helps regulate mood. Endorphins are also released, contributing to what some runners call a “runner’s high” - a sensation that reduces stress and enhances overall well-being. Regular exercise can also improve sleep quality, supporting better mood management. Not only does exercise help your relationship with yourself, but it also helps bring people together. An example of this is community sports. Community Sport and Wellbeing Humans naturally seek connections that foster a sense of belonging and community. Community sport is a great example of how a common goal and hobby can unite people. Whether it is the late cold winter nights at training or the Saturday afternoon matches, working towards a goal together strengthens relationships. Recent statistics have revealed that over 200,000 Australian men felt they didn’t have a single close friend, and 43% of men will experience poor mental health in their lifetime. These stats highlight the importance of community. Staying connected through exercise and community sports can help lower depression and anxiety, boost self-esteem, and improve overall quality of life (Tasmanian Government Department of Health, 2024). How did My Relationships Improve? From being the shy kid at school, struggling with mental health challenges, to becoming a confident young man, exercise has played a key role in improving my relationships - with others and with myself. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and sparked my passion for personal development. Some of my fondest memories are tied to sport - whether it was winning a grand final with my mates or celebrating their successes. Many of my closest friendships have been formed through community sports and exercise. Whenever I’m feeling down (which happens to all of us), I reach out to a mate to do something physical together - whether it’s training, surfing, or simply tossing a tennis ball at the beach. Physical activity has been a cornerstone in nurturing my relationships. Taking care of yourself is one of the strongest things you can do. By Conor Agnew Sources Tasmanian Government Department of Health. (2024). Why social connections are important for young people. Doh.health.tas.gov.au; Government of Tasmania. https://doh.health.tas.gov.au/healthykids/blog/why_social_connections_are_important_for_young_people#:~:text=Healthy%20social%20connections%20help%20us UK College of Personal Development. (2024). What is personal development? UK College of Personal Development. https://ukcpd.co.uk/personal-development/what-is-personal-development/

As the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival continues to grow and make an impact for the second year, it's clear that this platform is more than just a celebration of cinema—it's a powerful catalyst for change. The festival shines a spotlight on stories that delve into the topic of multiculturalism and mental health, offering a unique space where filmmakers can share their perspectives and audiences can find resonance in narratives that reflect their own experiences. In this interview, we speak with Kamil Domaradazki, Winner of Best Live-Action Short Film of the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival 2023 who shares his journey, the impact and the significance of telling stories that challenge stereotypes and promote mental wellbeing. What inspired you to submit your film to the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival in its first year? I was inspired to submit my film to the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival in its inaugural year because of its unique focus on the intersection of multiculturalism and mental health. The festival's mission to highlight diverse voices and stories resonated with me deeply, as my film explores themes of cultural identity and mental well-being. I saw it as an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful conversation and to reach an audience that values and understands the importance of these issues. How did winning the Best Short Film at the festival impact you and your work? Winning the Best Short Film at the festival was a tremendous honor and a significant milestone in my career. It validated the hard work and dedication that went into creating the film and provided me with a platform to share my story with a wider audience. The recognition boosted my confidence as a filmmaker and opened up new opportunities for collaboration and funding. It also reinforced my commitment to creating films that address important social issues and represent diverse perspectives. How do you feel the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival supports and promotes multiculturalism and mental health through cinema, and why do you think it’s important for filmmakers to tell stories that address these themes? The Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival plays a crucial role in promoting multiculturalism and mental health by showcasing films that explore these themes from various cultural viewpoints. By providing a space for diverse narratives, the festival fosters understanding and empathy among audiences and encourages dialogue about mental health issues that are often stigmatized or overlooked. It is important for filmmakers to tell these stories because they reflect the real experiences of people from different backgrounds, helping to break down stereotypes and promote inclusivity and mental well-being. It is so important for people to see themselves and their stories reflected on screen. The Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival creates an important and much needed space for these voices, stories and faces. What would you say to filmmakers who are considering submitting their work to the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival, especially those focused on diverse and inclusive narratives? I would encourage filmmakers to submit their work to the Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival. This festival is a fantastic platform to showcase your work and to connect with an audience that values and supports stories about multiculturalism and mental health. It is also an opportunity to be part of a community of like-minded filmmakers who are passionate about making a difference through cinema. Your story has the power to inspire, educate, and create change, and the festival is the perfect place to amplify your voice.  Kamil Domaradazki, Winner of Best Live-Action Short Film The Multicultural Mental Health Film Festival 2023

Thirty-three years ago, on August 12th, the United Nations established International Youth Day, a day dedicated to bringing youth issues to the forefront and celebrating the incredible potential of young people’s ideas and contributions. This International Youth Day, we are focusing on the critical topic of youth mental health. Mental health is a state of social, emotional, and psychological well-being that enables us to cope with daily challenges, contribute to our communities, and be the best versions of ourselves (World Health Organisation, 2022). It affects how we think, feel, and act. Poor mental health can lead to low energy, negative emotions like sadness and hopelessness, higher stress levels, a desire to isolate, and an inability to cope with daily stresses. According to a report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (2023), more than two in five Australians aged 16 to 24 have experienced poor mental health in their lives. What Does It Mean from a Youth Perspective? Adolescence marks the transition from childhood to adulthood and is a time of significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes. During this time, young people are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues due to academic pressures, social dynamics, identity exploration, and social media influences. This is why young people must develop positive social, emotional, and psychological habits that strengthen their mental well-being. In the spirit of International Youth Day, here are some ways young people can develop and maintain good mental health habits: Stay Connected Building and maintaining solid relationships with friends, family, and peers is essential for good mental health and wellness. Human beings naturally seek connection, which creates a sense of belonging and community. By staying connected, both in real life and digitally, you have the opportunity to talk about your feelings, discuss how to handle tough times and remind yourself that you are not alone. Staying connected can lower depression and anxiety, raise self-esteem, and improve overall quality of life (Tasmanian Government Department of Health, 2024). Practice Mindfulness Our minds are constantly active, filled with thoughts about school, work, relationships, the past, or the future. Mindfulness is important for being aware of your thoughts and focusing on the present moment. There are many ways to practice mindfulness; you might focus on your breathing, walk through nature, listen to music, or engage in a hobby that allows you to be in the moment. There are even apps such as Headspace or Smiling Minds that can help kickstart your journey. Overall, mindfulness can boost positive mental well-being and reduce the likelihood of stress, anxiety, and depression. Limit Screen Time In today’s digital world, managing how much time we spend on our devices can be challenging. Excessive screen time can detract from essential areas of life, such as interacting with family and friends or being active. By setting boundaries on your device usage, you can improve sleep habits, enhance your ability to focus and lower the risk of anxiety and depression (Kruse & Youth First, 2022). Be Active Staying active is critical for both physical and mental health. Even as little as 10 minutes of physical activity daily can contribute to stronger psychological and physical well-being. Physical activity helps you manage and regulate your moods more easily. Participating in sports, going to the gym, walking the dog, doing yoga, or even dancing are all great ways to stay active. Create Good Sleeping Habits Sleep is essential for maintaining good mental health. According to the Sleep Foundation, adolescents need around eight to ten hours of sleep every night (Suni et al., 2023). While it can be tempting to stay up late on your phone, reading, doing schoolwork, or gaming, developing a routine sleep schedule will promote better memory function, a stronger immune system, more energy, and strengthened mental well-being. Let's prioritise mental health and celebrate young people's incredible resilience and potential on this International Youth Day. By adopting these habits, young people can build a foundation for a healthy and fulfilling life. By Cathryn Langley References Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2023). National survey of mental health and wellbeing. In Australian Bureau of Statistics. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/mental-health/national-study-mental-health-and-wellbeing/latest-release Kruse, J., & Youth First. (2022, October 14). Benefits of decreased screen time. Youth First. https://youthfirstinc.org/benefits-of-decreased-screen-time/ Suni, E., Dimitriu, A., & Sleep Foundation. (2023, October 4). Teens and sleep. Sleep Foundation. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/teens-and-sleep Tasmanian Government Department of Health. (2024). Why social connections are important for young people. Doh.health.tas.gov.au; Government of Tasmania. https://doh.health.tas.gov.au/healthykids/blog/why_social_connections_are_important_for_young_people#:~:text=Healthy%20social%20connections%20help%20us World Health Organisation. (2022, June 17). Mental health. World Health Organisation; World Health Organisation. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response