Grow germinates better mental illness outcomes

GROW, Australia’s leading provider of peer groups for people with mental illness, is delivering on the promise of its name with ‘growing’ success through innovative programs such as Old Socks Day.

Called Old Socks Day – because anyone can have an odd day – is Grow’s national anti-stigma campaign and an opportunity for businesses to take a light hearted approach conversations about mental illness and stigma. 

Grow CEO Clare Guilfoyle said Odd Socks Day has five key actions – Be informed, Be brave (don’t tolerate stigma), Be open (share experiences) Be informed, and Be good to yourself … 

Ms Guilfoyle said Odd Socks Day this year is on Friday October 7 and Grow is urging businesses around Australia to take part as many of the solutions to mental illness can be developed in the business environment.

“Grow commenced in 1957, when there was little belief that people could recover from mental illness,” Ms Guilfoyle said. “Stigma surrounding mental illness was commonplace.

“Yet, our founding members believed that by supporting and encouraging each other, they could overcome the difficulties that their illness induced, and it worked.

“Our members consistently report improved relationships, sense of personal value, that they are taking charge of their lives and are more hopeful about the future.  They have a better network of friends and feel part of a community.”

Grow also supports people with high needs at two residential facilities, and provides a program in schools to disengaged children who are at risk of mental illness.

“We are also developing online groups for people in rural and remote areas,” Ms Guilfoyle said.

“The stigma surrounding mental illness is the leading reason why people do not seek help.  This year one in four people will experience mental illness.

“Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44 and the suicide rate among those aged 55 to 65 has surged by 54 percent,” she said.

“A 2015 report by PriceWaterhouseCoopers showed the cost to businesses is $10.9 billion per year where businesses do not take action to manage mental health conditions.”

Grow is a current Executive Leaders member of Queensland Leaders.

www.grow.org.au

 

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