A COMMUNITY WELL-BEING INITIATIVE
Awareness: The key to a better community
Preface:
The ORIOZ Executive Team is trying to spread awareness for the general well-being of our community. These efforts aim to enhance the well-being of the individual members as well as the Orioz diaspora in Australia as a community. There are precedents of similar programs which other ethnic immigrant groups have in place to support their members.
Making relevant information available about existing services of the Australian Government is an important step in this direction. Links to such information and services shall therefore be provided through the various Orioz communication channels. We, as an organization are here to facilitate access to information which could help migrants get connected and settle down. New migrants may understandably feel isolated. Therefore, knowing where the right information is and how to make use of available services in time of need is vital to acculturation. Some of the common issues experienced by immigrants are discrimination, social isolation, domestic violence, psychological issues, financial and work-related stress.
Are these factors relevant to our community here in Australia?
We have come across some incidences within our community which led us to reconsider the importance of information sharing for the benefit of our members.
We hope this document will prove to be of help to members. We wish to promote a happy, healthy and safe environment for all community members.
Orioz EC team
On behalf of the Orioz Family
Disclaimer:
All information here is from the Australian Government website of the Department of Social Services and other similar official resources. Orioz Inc and its official body is providing this information for the benefit of the community. Orioz Inc takes no ownership of any service providers or their contact information and is not directly responsible for any incidents or outcomes. All emergencies should be dealt with via the help line or the links provided.
EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING:
Why is it important?
We face many challenges as immigrants in a new country. We often try to tackle problems on our own assuming that is the only way forward. However, there are resources, support and help available to assist us. It is essential to reach out to the available support services and get the best guidance as that would ensure the best outcomes for all concerned.
What are the obstacles in seeking support for emotional distress?
Lack of awareness of available resources and lack of familiarity with the local systems and facilities is often the initial obstacle in getting help. Then there is reluctance in seeking help from professionals as most of us find the process unfamiliar and daunting. Fear of negative judgment further stops us from seeking help and support.
How to access emotional support if needed?
The links and contact information provided below will help you seek out the appropriate supports.
FINANCIAL COUNSELLING:
Financial issues might underlie emotional distress or might contribute to domestic violence.
Please find the link for further information and guidance.
FAMILY RELATED ABUSE:
Evidence suggests that women and children face problems that could remain hidden or unaddressed. Domestic abuse involves the power differential and can take on various forms. Stressors related to visa issues, financial problems, work-related problems or social isolation can contribute to or compound domestic violence in a household. Ignorance and fear of community backlash mostly prevents people from seeking help. It is important that everyone get the right information on available resources and supports.
How can we support oneself or someone else?
It is important to understand that we could cause more harm than good by not directing the victim to the appropriate professional services. Gaining basic information about various types and patterns of domestic abuse and violence will alert one to such issues sooner. In case of confusion or doubt, it would be helpful to talk with a professional who can help clarify things.
To find out more about what to do if you are in an abusive relationship, you can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for help and advice.
If a friend is a victim of some form of domestic abuse and violence, be there for them, but help them reach out to the appropriate service for support.
What are the links to better information and help?
https://www.1800respect.org.au/violence-and-abuse/domestic-and-family-violence/support
https://www.1800respect.org.au/violence-and-abuse/financial-abuse/support
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/subjects/family-and-domestic-violence
https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/financial-information-service/free-seminars
How do tele counselling services work in Australia?
These are 24×7 confidential counselling services provided by professionals.
https://www.1800respect.org.au/help-and-support/telephone-and-online-counselling
*Every state has some special counselling services.
HELPLINE(Australia/National)
IF YOU WANT TO TALK TO SOMEONE, CALL:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 46 36
Headspace on 1800 650 890
QLife on 1800 184 527
FAMILY AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUPPORT SERVICES:
1800 Respect national helpline: 1800 737 732
Women’s Crisis Line: 1800 811 811
Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114 (24X7)
Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277
Connect Women line | Ph: 1800 811 811 (24×7)
DVConnect Men line | Ph: 1800 600 636 (9 am to 12 midnight, seven days a week)
# State Based services: Each state has special state-based services available.
A SPECIAL NOTE FOR PARENTS AND CHILDREN
Children are psychologically vulnerable to stressors such as domestic violence and abuse. They are also often subject to school bullying and harassment or cyberbullying. It is important to understand that their young minds have not yet developed the coping mechanisms needed to even articulate what they may be undergoing. As parents we must keep ourselves educated, aware and alert to any signs of distress in our children.
Family related abuse can be an isolating and shameful experience. The children in such households might blame themselves, leading to many health issues. If they feel trapped and helpless they may deal with the violence by becoming quiet and withdrawing from the world. Simply witnessing verbal, emotional and/or physical abuse is traumatic for the young mind. Parents should be aware of both long and short-term psychological impact on children (Kids helpline).
The newest form of abuse seen currently is smart, techno related abuse/online harassment that could be directly linked to emotional distress. The perpetrator could be a friend, or anyone. It does affect their well-being of the receiver, irrespective of the age. It is therefore important to report it to the right services.
There is always a help available.
Keep children safe from online abuse.
Contact:
Kids helpline – 1800551800
https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents
https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/webchat-counselling
https://kidshelpline.com.au/get-help/phone-counselling/
E-safety commission is there to help you at
https://esafety.gov.au/esafety-information
https://esafety.gov.au/wellbeing-directory