Absolutely!
Is it okay to take the bits of Christmas that work for you and discard the rest?
Definitely!
And is it okay to enjoy the solitude of Christmas Day and indulge yourself without feeling guilty?
The SANE Blog
Schizoaffective disorder is a psychiatric condition, combining the symptoms of schizophrenia and mood disorders (bipolar or depression). These symptoms – hallucinations, delusions, psychosis and episodes of mania or depression – can occur together or at different times.
The holidays are a time to connect with our loved ones. But for many people it can feel the opposite. Being separated from family and loved ones – either due to work, loss, or conflict – can make this time of year one of unhappiness and loneliness.
We might feel disconnected from others and feel like nobody really understands us, listens to us, or values our company.
The holidays can be a difficult time if we are feeling like this, but there are simple strategies you can use to help manage feelings of loneliness.
The staff who answer the phones at mental health hotlines are at the coalface of the industry, working directly to help people in crisis.
SANE followed a typical day in our Help Centre, which offers 12,000 hours of free specialist support every year for people affected by complex mental illness.
Throughout my life I have been learning ways to be a 'better me', better at managing myself and my health.
These ways are individual and special to me, but may also assist others.
Does owning a pet have a positive impact on your mental health?
It seems research is mixed when it comes to this question and the benefits aren't always black and white.
So to help shine an anecdotal lived experience light on the issue, we asked our community, 'What are the mental health benefits of owning a pet?'
'Schizophrenia, you have schizophrenia. Shit, schizophrenia, this sounds serious but what is it?'
At 23 I was still naive, and even though I had been a university student I had not encountered schizophrenia in friends or relatives. I sat bewildered in the psychiatrist's office, perplexed not only by my inner psychotic confusion but wondering what was to become of me.
What do psychologists want you to know about mental health?
We asked six psychologists, 'What should everyone know about mental health?'.
Postnatal psychosis (also known as postpartum or puerperal psychosis) is a rare condition affecting around 1 or 2 women in every thousand.
It's a serious illness that requires urgent treatment.
Most people know very little about postnatal psychosis so it can come as a shock. It can often occur suddenly without a history of mental illness.
Understanding postnatal psychosis can better prepare families in the event of an episode.
The Australian Marriage Equality Postal Survey result is due to be announced today.
Whatever the result — whether you're elated, pleased, disappointed or devastated — it's going to be a big, emotional day across the country. Self-care is going to be important.
Here are a few suggestions for looking after yourself over the next couple of days.