Media Release
Friday 06 October, 2006
Mental Health Week message: Separated parents urged to take time for themselves
To mark Mental Health week on 8-14 October, the Child Support Agency's General Manager Matt Miller is encouraging all separated parents to carve a little time out of their busy lives for their wellbeing.
"Separation can be a very difficult time. It's normal to feel a whole range of emotions but toughing it out on your own can make it harder on yourself and your children," Mr Miller said.
"Taking time looking after yourself physically and mentally can move you forward and help energise you to tackle the challenges in your family, your work and your personal life," he said.
Mr Miller suggested separated parents who were feeling the strain should talk to their family, friends or GP and also find tips and ideas through CSA's free booklets on CSA's website or in their local library.
"CSA talks to over 9000 parents a day. We know the key areas of stress and our staff are trained to refer parents or their children to a range of community support groups or Family Relationship Centres," Mr Miller said.
Dr Tony Hobbs, Chairman of the Australian Division of General Practice believes people going through separation should visit their GP if they have sustained loss of appetite, weight loss, or gain, or are having trouble sleeping.
"Most people are unaware that these physical problems can be early signs of depression or anxiety," said Dr Hobbs.
"Early intervention is crucial to stopping them get worse," he said.
CSA has a number of free booklets and a CD-ROM with tips and experiences of separated families, Including:
What About Me? a free booklet full of tips and hints on looking after yourself during and post separation so you can be there for your kids. What About Me? will help:
- Explain how you may be feeling;
- Explain how your children may be feeling;
- Identify strategies for staying in touch with your children;
- Help rebuild self-confidence;
- Strengthen resilience;
- Reduce conflict; and
- Help families seek help.
"If you or anyone you know is struggling with separation it's important to seek help. You will come through a separation in better shape if you look after your emotional health - it's just as important as your physical health," Mr Miller said.
- For free copies of any of CSA's booklets and CD-ROM call 1800 040 972 or visit www.csa.gov.au
Media contact CSA: (02) 6272 8540
Media contact ADGP - Kathryn Conroy (02) 6228 0819
Media enquiries should be directed to media@csa.gov.au
