MATESHIP

Olas and LIVIN have teamed up to emphasise the power of mateship. It’s about watching out for your buddies, especially when they’re facing life’s challenges. So, what’s the game plan when your mate’s going through a rough patch? Keeping it simple is where it’s at – be their anchor, help them navigate the twists and turns.

MATESHIP: A Guide to Supporting Your Mates. 

One: Spot the signs:

• Increased alcohol or drug use, anger, irritability, sadness, nervousness
• Disrupted sleep, physical health decline, looking and feeling unwell
• Risky behavior and impulsivity
• Challenging life events like a breakup, financial stress, or job insecurity

Warning signs come in many forms. Trust your instincts. Watch for any changes or someone acting out of character.

Two: Prepare to kickstart the conversation:

• Preparation prevents poor performance.
• Choose comfortable settings for a chat. Coffee, beer, or a walk.
• Stay relaxed and composed; role model calmness.
• Plan ahead with a loose script. What behavior changes do you notice? Start with, “Hey [name], you seem a bit off. How are you doing? How are you really doing?”
• Be ready for a range of responses, including “Not OK.” Keep it simple. You don’t need all the answers.
• Listen first; you’ve got two ears and one mouth. Speak less; hear more.
• Avoid giving immediate advice; collaborate on solutions together.

Three: Let them know about support options:

• Self-support – Promote self-care: “What used to make you feel better? Let’s start doing those things again.”
• Harness the strength of social support: “How can I best support you right now?” Just being there matters, even if they seem unreceptive.
• Seek referral options together: “I know of some good support resources. How can I help you connect with them? We’re in this together.”
• Support from friends and family is vital.
• For immediate crisis help, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14, available 24/7.
• Consider a trusted GP for a chat, inquiring about a Mental Health Care/Treatment Plan and referral to a mental health professional.

Four: Check-in:

• Gently nudge without nagging.
• Follow up your conversation to show genuine care and to assess their well-being. If they’re not feeling better, revisit the support options mentioned in Step 3.
• Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to better mental health, so experimenting with different strategies is essential.

Five: When supporting others, remember to care for yourself:

• Ask yourself: Are you in a position to provide support? Do you have time to lend an ear?
• Ensure your own self-care and support are in place. 
• Prioritise self-care for your well-being, enabling you to assist others effectively.

As they say, “Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm.”