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Mental Health Resources

Stay Afloat

Fishers endure levels of psychological distress at a level almost double the general population, with the top three stressors being:

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  • Government red tape

  • Uncertainty about future access regulations

  • Changes to access regulations

 

Almost 60 per cent of fishers reported a higher rate of moderate to very severe body pain compared to 46.5 per cent of the general population, with more than half of fishers surveyed saying the pain had interfered with their lives.

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But, did you know prevention is better than a cure?

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It’s always easier to fix your net if it didn’t tangle in the first place.

Good health prevents illness in our bodies, and in our minds, and Stay Afloat Australia has been designed to deliver wellness strategies, tips and ideas for your body and for your mind.

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Fishers have also reported being diagnosed with a number of serious health conditions at a higher rate than the general population, including cardio-vascular problems like high blood pressure and high cholesterol related to diet, diabetes, skin cancer from sun exposure, and hearing-related problems; along with chronic musculoskeletal problems as a result of working in unpredictable weather conditions, using heavy machinery on unstable platforms, and fatigue related to long work hours.

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Below you’ll find information and tips on how to stay well, you can also visit Stay Afloat on Facebook to learn more.

Beyond Blue

People may be at greater risk of depression and anxiety after experiencing a traumatic event like the loss of a loved one or workmate, a natural disaster, or a downturn in business. Normal reactions include:

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  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • Feeling numb and detached

  • Inability to focus

  • Inability to plan ahead

  • Constant tearfulness

  • Intrusive memories or bad dreams related to the event

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Constant questioning – “What if I had done x, y or z, instead?”

  • ‘Replaying’ the event and inventing different outcomes to be prepared in case it happens again

These reactions can be severe and are usually at their worst in the first week following the event, and in most cases will fade over the following month. If someone’s day-to-day functioning is seriously impacted after the event, it is important to discuss this with your GP or a mental health professional.

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The following flyers provide information about how to cope after a natural disaster:

  • Looking after your family and yourself after disaster

  • Emotional responses after a disaster

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For more information Visit beyondblue.org.au.

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