day fifty-three - what to say
Over the course of this year, I knew that I would be making connections with people. I believed that whilst the vast majority of people would view what I’m doing as either daft or useless, there would be some that would like or appreciate, and see it for what it is - a fairly unplanned attempt to show solidarity with other people affected by mental health issues, and rather than just simply say “We need to talk”, to demonstrate what it’s like to be open about it, and see where that takes me. The final group I’d imagined were a very small few that it really reached out to, and in some strange way, helped them with their own mental health.
What I didn’t expect was that at this very early stage, those connections have already been made with some, and by simply wearing a kilt and being open, somehow, that has given them strength, a sense of acceptance and courage to continue onwards and upwards.
To those who have reached out, who have confided in me, or have just been touched by something written or said here, thank you. I hope that I have said the right things, and helped. If not, I’m so terribly sorry, as that would never be my intention.
It’s a very strange sensation, both beautiful and terrifying. I have no training, no extensive knowledge, and no language with which to converse and discuss someone else’s situation. As someone with only the experience gained through a life living with mental health issues, this realisation is quite a daunting one. These kind of conversations need to be happening regularly, with people and professionals whom are trusted. But the person who is trusted may not have the experience and skill-set to discuss these things.
We all need to get better at talking. To be more open and understanding, to recognise the triggers and signs of mental illness in those around you. As a society and culture where mental health and suicide affects so many, we can’t continue down the same path and expect a different outcome. It’d be wonderful if the skills to do this were more widely taught.
To that end, I’m taking a small step in learning how to properly take these first steps, particularly in crisis situations. There is a wonderful looking short course run by St. Johns Ambulance in Mental Health and Crisis Support.
This course gives you the skills and knowledge required to recognise situations where people may be in imminent crisis, and then to work collaboratively to minimise any safety concerns and to make plans to access required support services.
Management of the crisis may involve face to face, telephone or remote contact with persons involved.
Course outline:
- What is mental health?
- What is a mental health crisis?
- Duty of care
- Principles of crisis intervention
- Recognising and responding to signs of a person who might be at risk
- Providing support to people at risk
- Where to go for assistance?- Principles of self-care
It’s only a day, but I’m hoping that it helps me come from the right place, based on research and experience in the field. Perhaps I may see some of you there.
Kilt of the day - Ross Modern Hunting Tartan
Heavy Metal Cello Soundtrack of the day - Apocalyptica - No Education
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4IpORp1ppQ
Funky Soundtrack of the day - Jamiroquai - Soul Education
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=969B9-V_Bac
Disturbingly hip live version of the Funky Soundtrack of the Day - Jamiroquai - Soul Education Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2003
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPV0-hBJbKU
Link of the Day - St John Ambulance Mental Health and Crisis Support
https://www.stjohnnsw.com.au/mental-health-and-crisis-support/w1/i1699786_1024300/
Lots of love and thanks!
