Page 2991 - Week 10 - Tuesday, 16 October 2007
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .
mental illness, with 25 per cent of people in this age bracket suffering from a mental illness.
It can be difficult to watch out for warning signs of mental illness, as they will differ from person to person. Fortunately, there are some symptoms common to almost all people who are beginning to suffer from a mental illness. Changes in the behaviour of individuals, either immediately or gradually over time, may indicate that such a person is suffering from a mental illness.
We had a presentation from a chap who was suffering. He came to Australia with no English, separated from his wife as he arrived in Australia and struggled for quite a long time to gain some sort of position in the community. He indicated that he had thought of suicide a couple of times, but now, with assistance, he has come back into the community and is operating in a normal frame of mind.
The symptoms suffered by people with a mental illness can make life very difficult, including work, study and social relationships. In combating mental illness it is recommended that a combination of medical treatment, to redress the chemical imbalance, and some physiotherapy, psychology and counselling take place. Also important in helping those with mental illness are compassion and understanding from others around them; life can be very difficult and isolating otherwise. The environment in which people with mental illness live will have a huge impact on their quality of life and their recovery from that illness.
On days like World Mental Health Day we can show our support in raising in all members of our community awareness that mental illness is not something to be afraid of and not something to turn a blind eye to; and, if we work together, we can help those who need it most.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 6.25 pm.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .