October is Mental Health Month. We sat down with one of our Broken Hill clinicians to learn more about how to look after our mental health.
Lesley Harvey is the Royal Flying Doctor Service Child and Family Mental Health Clinician based in Broken Hill.
Lesley has a background in early childhood and special education and has worked in Broken Hill and surrounding communities for the past 20 years.
"My role with the Flying Doctor focuses on the social and emotional wellbeing of children, young people and their families across the network," Lesley said.
Lesley's work also has a community focus by working with local schools and services. This year she became a qualified Play Therapist.
Play therapy is a form of psychotherapy that allows children, young people and families to express their thoughts, feelings and ideas about themselves and other life worlds through age-appropriate play.
"I joined the Royal Flying Doctor Service family to continue working in rural and remote communities and to share my passion for the importance of play as a therapy."
In acknowledgement of Mental Health Month, Lesley shared her best advice for looking after your mental health.
"My favourite mental health tip would be to find time to play. Try taking a moment, each day, to set your work aside - taking time to charge your battery with small play activities.
For example, you might go for a short walk outside and notice sounds/smells, have a colouring book in your draw or some pipe cleaners. Give yourself license to see everything, enjoy everything and let yourself explore.
