The Australian Psychological Society is asking Australians to Believe in Change as part of a national advertising campaign, encouraging them to seek psychological assistance for mental health and life issues.
The campaign, which will be launched in Sydney on Wednesday March 1, focusses on the benefits change can bring.
APS President Anthony Cichello MAPS says: “If we want to make change in our lives we need to believe change is possible. Whether your goal is to improve your performance, your relationship, manage depression or be a better parent, a psychologist can help you move from where you are to where you want to be.
“As psychologists we believe in change and we are trained to help people make effective improvements in their lives and break harmful or unhelpful behaviour patterns and habits.”
It is estimated that only 45% of Australians with a mental health issue seek assistance.
Mr Cichello said: “More than half of those with a mental health issue don’t seek help – which equates to millions of Australians. Many people struggle with issues that affect their wellbeing and quality of life when psychological assistance is available to help them to cope better, resolve issues, and move forward.”
Psychologists are the largest health mental health workforce in Australia.
“Seeking psychological help should be as normal as going to the doctor for a physical ailment,” he said.
Mr Cichello said the complexity of modern life adds to people’s stress and challenges their coping skills and resilience. Additionally many of the traditional support structures of family and community no longer exist – making psychologists important for all our lives.
He said: “As psychologists we are trained to walk in people’s shoes – to listen and to understand. However alone someone may feel, they do not have to face challenges on their own. Psychologists offer solutions that have been proven by research to work.”
“Apart from mental health problems there are many issues for which people may need professional assistance. Relationship, workplace, parenting, learning and health issues as well as issues like autism or ADHD are just some of the challenges facing Australians,” he said.
“Psychologists work across a broad range of areas to help people so it's important that the public understands those services and how to access them.
“Our message is Believe in Change.”
The Australian Psychological Society engaged Cummins & Partners to develop the advertising campaign. The ads go to air on television on Sunday 5 March. For more information go to: www.believeinchange.com
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on X: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 25,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.