difficult conversations

When talking is daunting: tips from a psychologist

As a clinical psychologist formerly working in psychiatric crisis teams, Andrew Fuller has had more than his share of conversations with troubled young people. Nevertheless, he’s aware that most of these conversations don’t start with a mental health professional. So regardless of how ill-equipped you feel to have these conversations, when a young person comes [...]

4 Steps to Asking ‘R U OK?’

Got a niggling feeling that someone you know or care about it isn’t behaving as they normally would? Perhaps they seem out of sorts? More agitated or withdrawn? Or they’re just not themselves. Trust that gut instinct and act on it. By starting a conversation and commenting on the changes you’ve noticed, you could help [...]

7 Ways to Talk to Teenagers About Mental Health

As it's revealed one in ten young people will experience mental health problems before they turn 16, experts say it's vital for mum and dad to reach out to their youngsters One in ten young people experiences a mental health problem before they turn 16. Jo Loughran, director of the charity Time To Change, shares [...]

How To Talk To Someone Close To You Who Is Gambling

Partners, family members and friends often ring the Gambling Helpline (1800 858 858) wanting advice about how to talk to their loved ones about their gambling. Many times they want to talk about how to begin the conversation. Other times the family member or significant other admits gambling has been an ongoing discussion topic that, [...]

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