Posted by Michelle CRAWFORD
During this month Rotarians are encouraged to LIFT THE LID and raise funds for Rotary Health.  RCM is directing funds raised through our October Raffle to Lift the Lid – many thanks to Rob Hines and the fundraising committee for their support.
 
The Lift the Lid campaign, founded by ARH Vice Chairman Greg Ross, started in 2016 in partnership with Rotary Clubs of Victoria. The event was such a success that it has now been extended to all Rotary Clubs across Australia as an annual event.  To find out more, visit - australianrotaryhealth.org.au/support-us/campaigns/lift-the-lid/
 
 
You can join the conversation on social media via @LiftTheLidEvent #Liftthelidonmentalillness #HatDay21
 
 
We know that the pandemic has exacerbated poor mental health and Australia’s statistics prior to the current situation show that:
• Almost one in five Australians (20%) will experience a mental illness in a 12-month period.
 
• Nearly half (45%) of the population will experience a mental illness at some stage in their lives.
 
• At least one third of young people have had an episode of mental illness by the time they are 25 years old.
 
• Mental illnesses are the third leading cause of disability in Australia.
 
• Anyone can develop a mental illness and no one is immune to mental health problems.
 
 
The most common mental illnesses are
 
• Anxiety disorders affect around 14% of the adult population every year.
 
• Depression affects around 6% of the adult population every year.
 
• The remainder are affected by substance abuse disorders, psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia, personality disorders, and other conditions.
 
 
Many people have more than one diagnosis, and most people with mental illness recover well and are able to lead fulfilling lives in the community when they receive appropriate ongoing treatment and support.
 
However, only about half of those affected actually receive treatment. The majority of people who develop anxiety disorders and depression improve over time with appropriate treatment and support.
 
We are invited to join with Rotary Health to create public awareness and break down the stigma of mental illness
 
Lift the Lid on Mental Illness is an initiative of Australian Rotary Health, one of the largest non-government funders of mental health research in Australia.
 
100% of the money raised for Lift the Lid on Mental Illness goes directly to funding mental health research through Australian Rotary Health, funding studies including PhD and Project Grants which are used to develop and trial preventions and treatments for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses.
 
Members viewed a short video featuring Lift the Lid Ambassador Simon Gillard. 
 
Simon is a highly awarded former Police Detective Sergeant whose lived experience as a PTSD survivor brings a powerful raw authenticity to his passion for improving mental health outcomes for everyone – especially in the workplace, on the frontline, and in times of crisis and change.
 
Simon shares his story in person on-stage, 
via virtual events on screen, as an external consultant, in media and podcast interviews and through his own bestselling book.
 
In closing, Michelle asked members how they are feeling, and suggested that gratitude can help lift our spirits.  Similar to our physical health, if we are concerned about our mental health, we should speak with a doctor or medical professional.
 
A focus on Gratitude can really lift our spirits and Michelle asked us to reflect of 4 key questions: