SANE Online Forums

Saving Lives. Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.

Forums

Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.

  • 47,612Members
  • 1,281,253Posts
  • 1,400,000Visitors

Spotlight

Celebrate Each Other's Wins! 🥳
AuntGlow

about 10 hours ago

Celebrate Each Other's Wins! 🥳

Hello Forum Friends! 💛 So, I have been yappin' away with my fellow peer support workers about how many amazing shifts, changes, and adaptations you have all been making throughout your mental health journeys, and we thought it would be wonderful to create a space where you can Celebrate Each Other's Wins! 🥳 This can look like acknowledging someone's courage when reaching out, a challenge they have overcome, a creative project they have completed, or even a thank you for the ways that they have supported you on the forums. Essentially, if you see someone do something that makes you smile - share it! 🤩 Of course, you're more than welcome to let us know if you don't want to participate, as we understand that some people like to celebrate more privately. As always, this is a choose-your-own-adventure activity. ✨ We are very excited to see you celebrate each other (because you deserve it!). 🥰 @rav3n @Ru-bee @tyme @Jynx @RiverSeal @0ddsidian @MissinTooth @creative_writer @ArraDreaming @Captain24 @Till23 @Oaktree @Snowie @Cuddlebear @Dimity @ENKELI @Sparky79 @Bunniekins @TAB @Chasingsunsets @AlwaysMyself @lonemushroom @MotherDuck @avant-garde @BlueBay @Shaz51 @Appleblossom @heartathome @Kashmina @REDLINEZ750 @PeppyPatti @RebelliousAngel @Meowmy @StuF

Read discussion
18
23
Recording // Finding Purpose After Service – Free Webinar
Ru-bee

13 days ago

Recording // Finding Purpose After Service – Free Webinar

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be a big adjustment – for veterans and families alike. Finding a new sense of purpose, reconnecting with community, and navigating identity shifts are all part of the journey.Watch the recording of this free 60‑minute webinar where an inspiring line‑up of speakers will unpack these important topics and share their lived and professional perspectives: Marc MacDonald – Psychologist, Mates4Mates Michael “Mick” Lorrigan – Defence Liaison Officer, Disaster Relief Australia Jessica Holmes – Community and Peer Team Leader, Open Arms David Lauw - Assistant Director - Lived Experience, Open Arms Together they’ll explore: The difference between a day in the life of serving vs. ex‑serving members The importance of identity beyond service The role of community in recovery and purpose Help‑seeking and support pathways

Read discussion
3
0
ITS GARDEN TIME 🌿
R U OK? DAY
AuDHD Life: Anyone else?
0ddsidian

about 13 hours ago

AuDHD Life: Anyone else?

Hi Forumites! Today is World AuDHD Day! Wait, what is AuDHD? Have you just spelt ADHD wrong? Actually, no. AuDHD isn’t currently a formal diagnosis. It's a term that is starting to be used to describe the “neurotype” of people with both Autism AND ADHD. I’ve seen a bunch of people on the Forums who have both, just like myself! Autism and ADHD have their own challenges, but the combination can be super difficult too. Some of the traits of Autism and ADHD can overlap. A LOT of the time they clash or oppose each other. I know this has really confused me and sent me spiraling a bit. Like, what do you mean I want predictability and sameness, and ALSO novelty and spontaneity?! Check out the AuDHD Day website if you’re interested. I’d love to use this thread as a way to share resources and memes, to connect and to share our experiences as AuDHDer’s! Do you have Autism and ADHD? Do you identify with AuDHD? What have been some of your experiences? Please tag anyone who you think might relate to this! @Jynx @AuntGlow @tyme @rav3n @Ru-bee @Captain24 @Aegis

Read discussion
11
93
I SPY with my LITTLE EYE...SANE!
What has been your highlight today, no matter how big or small? Come share 🫶
Chasingsunsets

about 3 hours ago

What has been your highlight today, no matter how big or small? Come share 🫶

Hi everyone! This is my first ever forum post so do hope it lands where it’s meant to 🤣 Most days, I like to find a highlight 😊. Usually, that means during a walk with my dog, I try to spot something different, something cool or something that brings me some happiness. Whether it’s something big or small, it doesn’t matter. A highlight can be anything! I love taking photos and would really like to share and see what you've come across. Something that made you smile, sparked your interest, or simply caught your eye. For me, it’s all the little things that count on the hard days. To start, I’d like to share these beautiful birds I came across today. They like to appear like branches of a tree or the tree itself. They are called Tawny Frogmouth’s. Has anyone else seen these types of birds? My pics below -(hopefully not too small to see two in the tree on the left pic). What have you seen today? ☀️💛🙏

Read discussion
13
668
Friends, Family and Carers, Fancy a Cuppa and a Chat, Connect now
Craft Central
Judi9877

about 11 hours ago

Craft Central

Hello forumites! This is a new craft thread dedicated to all things craft, including knitting, diamond painting, crochet, cross stitch, mosaics, etc! Basically, anything crafty! I have found that crafts are great for mental health as it allows people to be creative and gives them a way to express themselves with different mediums and items, such as wool, paints, etc. It can also help regulate emotions and promote relaxation as well as being a great conversation starter! Tagging @ENKELI @Shaz51 @Ru-bee @rav3n @Glisten @AuntGlow @tyme and all forum members interested in crafts. Feel free to post any craft projects you may like to share and any craft ideas, news, etc, you may have. I look forward to seeing what things are shared here! I love knitting, crochet and cross stitch. I have knitted blankets, adults and kids jumpers and beanies for charity as well as myself and friends and have also done a cable knitted scarf in the past for a family friend which was both challenging yet enjoyable. I often have several knitting projects on the go and will knit when watching TV - something to help me focus and interested in the program, such as a simple blanket which only requires wool, needles and a tape measure with garter stitch being the stitch of choice. If I’m stressed or going through a rough period mentally, I find knitting a beanie or 2 to be a great way of handling this period as I can focus on the pattern and not whatever is causing me issues in my life. Knitting beanies for charity and blankets is a great way of using up leftover wool as I know they will be all diffferent yet unique and be able to keep people warm, especially here in Victoria where I’m based. I’ve been a knitter for over 40 years and love being creative with the colours of wool- acrylic mostly! I love knitting my own jumpers knowing that no one else will have the same jumper as me and being able to make it my own preferred length and style. In terms of crochet, I can only do granny squares so I’ve been making squares and blankets for charity. As for cross stitching, I started it over 20 years ago when I was at uni and have recently got back into the hobby. This clownfish is the start of a bookmark I started last night which I’m stitching to remind myself of when I saw a clownfish at the Cairns aquarium on my recent cruise ship holiday in June to the Great Barrier Reef. I have started doing diamond painting as of February this year thanks to starting it at a PARCS complex as part of my mental health recovery journey which I really enjoyed and found to be calming, meditative and good for dealing with anxiety and stress. I’ve got a cat canvas on the go and have recently completed 3 bookmarks from Kmart last week when I was on a mental health retreat. Below is a coaster I completed a few months ago from a kit from Kmart. Enjoy your crafting! Judi9877

Read discussion
9
107
Sports Central
Judi9877

4 days ago

Sports Central

Hi there all sports lovers! As lots of forum members like and enjoy sports, I’ve started this thread up to talk all things sport. This is a discussion space/thread for all things sports, whether that be discussing sports teams, athletes, players or anything in between. Tagging @Shaz51 @Glisten @Emelia8 @tyme @TAB @Ru-bee @AuntGlow and others who may be interested. Feel free to join in on the discussion! On a personal note, I’m into AFL - Brisbane Lions, NRL - Melbourne Storm, Suncorp Super Netball - West Coast Fever and Sunshine Coast Lightning, cricket- especially BBL with my team being the Hobart Hurricanes, tennis - currently watching the US Open, horse racing and swimming. I’ll also watch the Olympics and Commonwealth Games when they’re on TV. The AFL finals start off on Thursday night with Adelaide playing Collingwood in Adelaide - Go the Crows and the Brisbane Lions playing the Geelong Cats on Friday night at the MCG with a hopeful Lions win. Whoever wins these 2 matches has the following week off with the losers playing the winners of the other teams next week- see below. Fremantle play the Gold Coast Suns in Perth on Saturday and Hawthorn play the GWS Giants again on Saturday. Both are elimination finals with the losers ending their season. I’d love for the Lions to go back to back and win their 2nd premiership but Adelaide and Geelong are looking pretty good with most if their players in good form so it’s anybody’s guess as to what happens. It would be great to have an all Queensland grand final with the Lions and the Suns but again, I’m doubtful of that happening. Again, anything is possible! Enjoy your sports and may the best teams win! Judi9877

Read discussion
6
26
SANE Voices Newsletter - Edition #1
Ru-bee

16 days ago

23
45
Our Dream Trip
Icebreakers time!
rav3n

about 15 hours ago

Icebreakers time!

Welcome forumites!! If you’ve attended groups (through either Guided Recovery or RecoveryClub), then you’ll be familiar with all the fun lil icebreakers that the amazing facilitators come up with! 🧊 With our forums community growing each day, we thought it’d be a nice way to get to know each other and connect here too! The mods will take turns posting a new icebreaker question each week!! The first icebreaker question is... *insert drumroll* Which frog do you relate to most at the moment and why? 🐸*or if there's another frog that's not in the image, feel free to share or describe it! @AuntGlow @0ddsidian @Ru-bee @Aegis @Jynx @tyme @RiverSeal @avant-garde @Blackcloud @Snowie @Captain24 @MissinTooth @ale_inmelb @Zoe7 @Dimity @outlander @Eve7 @TAB @Meowmy @Till23 @Shaz51@oceangirl @The-red-centaur @Patches59 @Clawde @ENKELI @Healandlove @Appleblossom @Bill16 @StuF @StanD @AlwaysMyself @creative_writer @Lowrida29 @LostOne71 @Sevismo @Glisten @PeppyPatti @Oaktree @S1TREP @BecomingOkay @Magpie22 @flower881 @Lapis_Anteater @MatchaToad + feel free to tag some people who would interested!

Read discussion
15
182
How to Create a SANE Forums Account
Ru-bee

3 months ago

How to Create a SANE Forums Account

Hello! For those who are interested in the SANE forums, maybe you have spent some time taking a look around and reading threads and are now wondering how to get involved, here’s a quick guide for how to sign up and sign in to the SANE forums. Let’s start with an overview of why you might like to sign up: The SANE forums are a free, anonymous space to access peer to peer support, and is accessible 24/7 on any device They are moderated by mental health professionals for safety and support Open to adults in Australia living with mental health issues, their families, friends, and carers You can check out the video below on how to get started or continue reading for more tips... How to Start an Account Go to the SANE Forums Website: saneforums.org Register for an Account Click “Sign up” to create an account. Fill in the registration form: Create a unique username (do not use your real name or a name that might be otherwise identifiable for privacy) Provide a valid email address and basic personal information Set a secure password Agree to the Terms & Conditions and Community Guidelines Don’t forget to click “Sign up” Confirm Your Email Check your email inbox for a confirmation message (don’t forget to check your junk folder too!) Click the link in the email to activate your account. How to Log In Return to saneforums.org Click “Log In” Enter Your Username and Password Use the details you created during registration. Access the Forums Once logged in, you can: Read and join discussions Post questions or comments Connect with others for support Some extra notes: You can browse and read forum posts without registering, but you must create an account to post or interact. SANE Forums are anonymous and moderated 24/7 to ensure safety and privacy. Only one account per person is allowed, and you must be over 18 and living in Australia. If you have trouble registering or logging in, visit the site’s help section or contact SANE Support Services. Safety Note:SANE Forums are not a crisis service. If you need urgent help, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or emergency services (000).

Read discussion
6
0
✨Sunday Intention Setting✨
AuntGlow

20 minutes ago

✨Sunday Intention Setting✨

Hello lovely people, I have been reflecting on some ways we can support you all through our recovery-oriented way of connecting on the forums, and thought that creating a weekly intention setting/reflection conversation could be really helpful. 🥰 Intention-setting can allow us to more mindfully focus our attention onto the things we would like to explore more of (without too much pressure!). And when we do so within community, it can help us to feel more supported as we go about exploring new habits and ideas. Now, this isn't about showing up perfectly or reaching all of our 'goals' overnight, but rather, exploring what is possible, what we enjoy, and how we can feel more safely connected to ourselves. So, what will this look like exactly? 1. Set your intention for the week. For example, I am going to practice allowing myself 5 minutes a day to slow down. 2. Reflect. You can do this throughout the week via your notes app, a journal, or here on the forums. *Notice what feels good, what doesn't, and why. 3. Share the following Sunday. Let us know what you were able to explore and what came up for you/if you have any questions or need some support. Remember - there is no right or wrong! It's so fine if all you did was hold the intention in the back of your mind - change takes time. I would love you all to have fun with this and to explore things from a place of curiosity and compassion. 💛 And... go! @Dreamy @MissinTooth @Bow @Shaz51 @Captain24 @creative_writer @avant-garde @Oaktree @ENKELI @Dimity @Semly @Appleblossom @MJG017 @Sunnyside226 @Blackcloud @PeppyPatti @Till23 @Jynx @tyme @Ru-bee @rav3n @RiverSeal

Read discussion
12
347
Wind-down Wednesdays
rav3n

22 days ago

Wind-down Wednesdays

Welcome to Wind-down Wednesdays where we work through a new grounding or soothing tool on every third Wednesday! 🌺 The purpose of this thread is To learn more about various grounding/soothing strategies (can add them into your self-care toolbox) To understand why we do it and how it works in calming us down To create a safe space for members to visit whenever they need to wind down and catch their breath. You can work on the strategy by yourself here, or tag community members to join you (please be mindful of our guidelines - remember that members may not always respond immediately, and let’s not place pressure on others to respond) Promote self-care and self-reliance in regulating your emotions! Got a grounding tool/soothing strategy you’d like to share on this thread? Email us (team@saneforums.org) to let us know and we’ll save you a Wednesday slot! 😊 The first grounding tool we’ll be exploring is the 3-3-3 technique. 3-3-3: Name 3 things you see: scan the space around you. For each item you identify, really focus on the details of it – what colour is it? Is it heavy or light? Big or small? What’s the texture of the object? Name 3 things you hear: what are some sounds near you or far from you, are they soft or loud? Listen closely to identify them. Move 3 parts of your body: it can be light or dramatic movements such as slowly rolling your shoulders, clenching and unclenching your fists, wiggling your fingers and toes, jumping up and down, shaking your wrists, etc. So how does this work? Well, when we’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed, it can sometimes trigger a stress response where our body’s fight-flight-freeze system is activated, which you can learn more about here: The Four 'F' Trauma Responses - SANE Forums. This system is typically activated when our body identifies a physical threat, our body enters a heightened state of arousal to help survive – this can look like increased heart rate, increased muscle tension, decreased appetite, etc. When our anxious thoughts keep activating this heightened state of arousal, it can lead to a very dysregulated nervous system where our bodies keep reacting out of proportion to the threat, making it hard to calm down. Moving our focus from internal things (like anxious thoughts/feelings) to external things (like what we can see/hear), helps us slow things down and calm the stress response. It gives our body a chance to focus on things that it perceived as non-threatening (i.e. identifying a cup or a bird flying around), which gives our body a chance to slowly calm down. Practicing grounding techniques regularly can help regulate the nervous system with time. For more information, feel free to read this article: 3-3-3 Rule for Anxiety: How to Use, Scientific Basis, Other Coping Strategies Now let’s give it a go! Feel free to share the 3 things you saw, heard and the 3 body parts you moved – and any other reflections you’d like to add.

Read discussion
14
83
How To: Recovery Focused Posting
Jynx

4 months ago

How To: Recovery Focused Posting

Hi there SANE Forums Fam! This how-to guide was designed to help you post to the forums and create safety for yourself and others when talking about those tough topics, such as suicidal ideation and self-harm related thoughts and urges. We hope that this guide will help you to share safely about thoughts of suicide and self-harm, and seek support from others who understand what you are going through. What is recovery focused posting? When we talk about posting in a way that is recovery-oriented or recovery focused, we are encouraging posting in a way that protects both you, and the community. We let the community know what we need, so that it means even on the tough days, we are all here to support each other's safety and well-being. What it is - a way to communicate our needs so we can get the right support all about keeping the community safe a way for us all to keep working on building our resilience and capacity What it isn't - about banning or forbidding discussion of the difficult topics a requirement to 'always be positive' or to pretend we're feeling okay when we're not a restriction on sharing big, dark, or difficult feelings Having a 'recovery focus' is all about highlighting our needs, what's worked for us before, and what may or may not be helpful for us now. It helps reduce confusion and concern, helps reduce anxiety for members reading along, and reduces the risk of us triggering or getting triggered. It can even be empowering for us, in helping us learn to identify our support and recovery needs and practice communicating them to the people around us. Here are some examples of ways we can make our posts recovery focused: For many members and readers here on the SANE Forums, thoughts of suicide and struggles with self-harm are a common part of their mental health or life journey. It's often difficult to talk about these topics, so we want folks to feel like they can be open about what they're going through - without the risk of accidentally encouraging each others rumination or risky behaviours. If you are thinking about suicide, reaching out for support and talking about it is an important step to make sure that you get the right help when you need it most. The forums offers a judgement-free space to express ourselves, and we want to continue to encourage people to feel safe in sharing their story here. Creating a safe community starts with how we use our language. Safe language is important because: It allows others to feel capable and comfortable with providing us with support. It can protect others from common triggers and help someone else who is sitting with thoughts of suicide too. How we talk about suicide in the Forums is important for you, and for your fellow community members. Before you post to the Forums The SANE Forums are a peer support community where most of the support is provided by peers. This makes it a great place to seek support from others who understand what you are going through. It's important to note though, the SANE Forums cannot provide crisis support. We have put together some questions you can ask yourself before posting to work out whether it’s the SANE Forums or a crisis service that might be the best option for you in the moment (adapted from the Chatsafe online resource). Where is the right place/service for me to ensure I get the right help at the right time? If you are thinking about suicide, it’s important to get the right help at the right time. We have a flow chart to help you decide where the right place or service might be for you to seek help. This includes when it is okay to post to the SANE Forums, or when crisis services or emergency support might be the best avenue get the support you need. As a peer-to-peer support service, the SANE Forums can’t provide crisis support This is because: Most of the peer support that is offered across the forums comes from other members just like you. In a crisis, or when you are feeling unsafe, it is important that help comes from people who are trained to provide crisis support. The nature of online forums mean that replies aren’t instant. This means you may not get the help exactly when you need it. We do have Moderators and Peer Support Workers online 24/7 to monitor posts and offer support when needed, but the nature of forums means we can’t always be as responsive as you might need in a crisis. That’s where phone or webchat crisis supports are a good option to get timely support. Language can be ambiguous or interpreted in different ways in online, which is why when we are concerned that someone might be thinking about suicide, we check in via post or email, and refer to crisis support What am I hoping to get out of sharing my story? (aka: my purpose and needs) People talk about experiences of suicide for many reasons. This includes seeking help and support for thoughts of suicide, to raise awareness, or to support another person who might be going through something similar. There are lots of different reasons. Understanding your reason/purpose will help you work out the right avenue to meet your needs. What parts of my story am I comfortable to share and how will I feel when I share? (aka: my privacy and wellbeing) We all have different boundaries around how much of ourselves and our story we feel comfortable to share in a public space. Ensuring you feel safe to share when talking about thoughts of suicide is important, whether that is in an online space, a private space (eg: with a counsellor or mental health professional), or with a trusted person in our lives. How can I write my story in a way that ensures I get the support I need AND is safe for others reading? Think about how you would write your story and whether you are in a space to be able to write in a way that is safe for all to read. We have some tips to help you do this. You can also look at our Community Guidelines. How can I write about thoughts of suicide safely? Let the community know that you are safe: If you are posting about suicide, and are safe, then include that in your post. For example: “I have been coping with thoughts of suicide, but I am safe. I am looking for support from my peers”;“Today has been really difficult, and I don’t know if I can keep doing this, but I am safe tonight and will reach out to a helpline if I feel I need to” or; “I am someone who lives with thoughts of suicide each day, but if they get worse tonight I will go for a walk and speak with a friend. I am safe for now” If you aren’t feeling safe, it’s time to log off the forums and access crisis support. Use safe language: Our words have power, and it’s important that we use trauma safe language when talking about suicide on the forums. By trauma safe language, we mean language that is not graphic, upsetting or triggering for others to read. This includes staying away from graphic detail including means or plans, and making sure you are clear and direct about your current safety. Use trigger warnings: Help other forum members make an informed decision about whether to read on by including a trigger warning. You might add TW: mentions suicide in your title, or include Trigger warning: mentions thoughts of suicide in the first line of your post. Avoid mentioning methods of suicide: Many members of the forums may have experience of suicidal thoughts, feelings or behaviours, and might be triggered, upset or impacted by mentions of methods. Instead, remove the methods of suicide and replace with more general statements such as “I think about action to end my life”, or “I have had thoughts of methods before”. You can still get your story across without listing the method. Let the community know what support you are looking for/what you need: You know what you need best, and letting others know means they can provide more effective support to you when you need it most. For example: “I just need someone to sit with me right now”, “I would like some suggestions” or, “I need some distraction” I often hear Moderators/Peer Workers ask the question “Are you feeling safe for now?”. What does it mean? If we have reason to believe that you might be thinking about suicide, we will check in to see how you are feeling, and whether you are currently thinking about suicide. You may hear us ask if you are safe, but safety can mean many things, so let’s define what we mean in the context of suicide. “Are you safe for now?”: If we are concerned that you might be thinking about suicide, we will ask you if you are safe for now. What we mean is, are you planning to act on thoughts of suicide now? "I am safe for now": If you are safe for now, we will encourage you to reach out and seek peer support through the forums. There are a lot of other people here sitting with thoughts of suicide too who know what it’s like to take steps towards safety. For many people, thoughts of suicide can be ongoing, so we may ask a few times as safety might change from hour to hour, or day to day. That’s why we say safety for now, as we are trying to understand your immediate safety and offer appropriate support. This is especially important in public online spaces where we don’t have the same communication options as we would in real life settings. It can be really helpful to have a safety plan prepared for times when you might have thoughts of suicide, which will help you take steps to seek help or safety. Beyondnow is a great online tool to help you build a safety plan. "I am not able to stay safe": If you tell us you are not able to stay safe, we will ask you to confirm if you are planning to end your life and if you have a plan. This will happen off the forums and via email. If you aren't able to or aren't sure that you can stay safe, this is when it is time to step off the forums and access immediate crisis support. In an emergency, the best place to seek help is to call 000, or go to your local emergency department. As a mental health service, SANE can be a safe space to share if you are feeling unsafe, and we will get emergency help to you. As mandatory reporters, if a forum member tells us or indicates that they are in serious and imminent risk of harm, including planning to end their life now, then we do contact emergency services. This is an important part of ensuring the safety and wellbeing of those who access our services. Mandatory reporting is (as the name suggests) mandatory by law, which ensures that every health service, including SANE, are looking out for the safety and wellbeing of the people we support. When might Moderators, Community Managers or Peer Support Workers step in? The SANE Forums team may step in when a post breaches our safety guidelines, and could impact the safety of the person posting or the wellbeing of those reading. We will remove or edit posts that mention or imply: A person intends to end their life, or doesn’t confirm safety in a way that could be upsetting for those reading. This includes where there are ambiguous mentions or inferences to suicide without confirming safety. Methods of suicide or self harm Graphic descriptions Check out the suggestions earlier in this post to help you stay within the guidelines. We will email members to: Check in to see if a member is safe for now and offer referrals to crisis support Check in with others who may have been upset by something they have read on the forums Let members know if a post is removed or edited Offer suggestions of how to bring posts back in line with the guidelines Let a member know if we are involving emergency services, if doing so doesn't put the person at further risk of harm SANE has a responsibility to keep the Forums safe for everyone. This means that there may be times we will need to make tough decisions to remove a post, email you about the guidelines, or pause an account. If we are concerned about your safety, we want to make sure you have access to crisis services, and we will refer to options such as: National crisis services such as Lifeline (13 11 14) and Suicide Call Back Service (1300 659 467). You can find a list of crisis services at the top of every page on the SANE Forums. 000 in an emergency SANE’s other support services Other services specific to your situation (eg: 1800Respect, BlueKnot, Mensline…) Summary Here are the key points: It’s important we can talk about topics like suicide and self-harm here on the forums How we talk about suicide is key to creating safety for the person posting, and those reading Using safe language, trigger warnings and letting the community know you are safe, and what you need, can help ensure you get the help you deserve, while also looking out for the community SANE staff may reach out to ask if you are safe and offer referrals to crisis supports. We may also remove posts that breach our safety guidelines around talking about suicide If you are unsafe and at imminent and serious risk of harm, we are required by law to get emergency help to you Thanks for reading along folks 😊

Read discussion
8
0
Hobbies and Projects
How To
Welcome! Introduce yourself here 🙂
Daisydreamer

6 days ago

Welcome! Introduce yourself here 🙂

New here? Welcome to the SANE Forums! We are so happy you found us and have joined our wonderful community. There are lots of people here like you, who can understand what you might be going through and offer valuable peer support. You may see members reaching out to share their stories, asking questions about mental health, looking for others who get it, seeking support and offering support. We hope you find this a supportive and welcoming space to be. We want to get to know you, and introduce you to other members of the SANE Community. To get started, you can simply post here by clicking "reply" to introduce yourself and a fun fact or two about you. Or, you can introduce yourself to the community by starting a new discussion thread! How to do that you ask? Follow the below steps to create your first post. Click back into the Welcome & Getting Started topic area Click the ‘New Discussion’ Button Type in a subject title Enter your post (there are some helpful tips on how you can introduce yourself below) Then click post! Feel free to check out our "how-to" video here: https://youtu.be/y9y-b7q43eQ?si=79nIOvHs5Qxm7w0j You may see our Peer Support Workers welcoming new members in this space, so please reach out if you have any questions, or if we can help you get started 🙂 We are always happy to help! To reach us, @moderator or email us at team@saneforums.org. We look forward to getting to chatting soon

Read discussion
34
1,628
Newbie's Social Club - Come make some friends!
Jynx

about 20 hours ago

Newbie's Social Club - Come make some friends!

Hey Forumites!! This is a space for members new and old, to gather around and help make our newer members feel welcome! We've all been newbies ourselves at some point, and can empathise with how incredibly daunting it can be entering a new space. A lot of folks have trouble even knowing where to start, and (even though we're in the midst of improving it all) we know the forums can be a tricky space to navigate - which can make it very difficult for newbies to be able to find their footing! On top of that, joining any established community means being 'the new kid on the block', and seeing others connecting easily with established relationships can sometimes feel like we aren't welcome, or that we need to 'break in' to the conversation somehow. Well this space aims to alleviate that pressure and help facilitate some new connections! Whether you're brand new here or you've been here since the very beginning, you're welcome to come hang out, meet some new people, reconnect with others, and maybe even make a new friend! We will try to tag new members as they join, so help us make them feel welcome! Here's today's newest forumites: @noodles1 @IndigOverwhelm @Sam63 @Sosad01 @jsbpd @JJll @Andora @riotgrrl @HopeEverlasting @Bellle Feel free to tell us a little about yourself, what brought you to the forums, and what you're looking for here! Tagging in our lovely bunch of Community Guides too! They're seasoned members who volunteer their time and energy towards making the forums a safe and welcoming place for everyone. We wouldn't have the community we do without their efforts and their passion! Feel free to reach out to them, they're always quite happy to help guide and support 😊 @Anastasia @BPDSurvivor @Eve7 @Faith-and-Hope @MDT @Judi9877 @outlander @Shaz51 @Snowie @wellwellwellnez @Zoe7

Read discussion
8
1,568
NDIS Music and Art Therapy
RiverSeal

6 days ago

NDIS Music and Art Therapy

Hey Forumites, If you are like me and have been hanging out for the result of the NDIS Music and Art Therapy review to find a result. Well it is here and is really positve for those that use the supports. The review found: Art and music therapies will continue to be available to people with disability under the National Disability Insurance Scheme where there is evidence it will provide beneficial outcomes. The Independent Review of Art and Music Therapies led by leading health economist Dr Stephen Duckett AM confirmed that they could be effective and beneficial in the right circumstances. The Duckett Review made 19 recommendations relating to art and music supports for NDIS participants, of which 15 are directed to the National Disability Insurance Agency. The NDIA supports all the recommendations directed to it. Read the full review here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10894-duckett-review-confirms-art-and-music-therapy-continue Phew 😮‍💨 now I can continue to attend my Music Therapy sessions every Saturday! Take care RiverSeal

Read discussion
6
5
1 - 10 of 10
heartathome|Senior Contributor|Last message 3 minutes ago
Hello

Hello everyone. I'm doing okay! I have bible study on this morning and I'm thinking of going to see my son this afternoon and staying the night. I'll see how I feel later. I was on last night but didn't want to interrupt the conversation. I'm not sure if I can jump in. Maybe I need to make a new discussion, like I am now. Blessings to you all!

  • 1
  • 5
GN88|New Contributor|Last message about 1 hour ago
Stress, anxiety & uncertainty

Hey everyone, I'm new here. Just received news that has caused great stress and anxiety for myself, could affect greatly my life and whether I can still live where I live currently. I tried to share the news with my partner but afraid she's now stressed and anxious as much as I am but putting on a brave facade. I honestly just feel helpless and that feeling of being frozen because I don't want to cause any more problems. I've started skipping meals as stress increases and exhausted by my own thoughts. Has anybody out there experienced experienced such acute anxiety and stress and how do I be more at peace with the situation at hand?

  • 1
  • 1
Till23|Senior Contributor|Last message about 14 hours ago
DID integration of parts

I am just wondering if there is anyone here who has DID or OSDD where they have had integration of some or all parts (alters) and who is willing/able to talk about it

  • 1
  • 0
bedrotgirly|Casual Contributor|Last message about 11 hours ago
Bed Rot Support

Hello everyone I’m looking for (or thinking of starting) an online community where people who struggle with low motivation, “bed rotting,” or procrastination can support each other.The idea would be a space where we:Check in on each otherShare small wins, routines, or ways we get even tiny things doneMotivate and inspire each other without judgmentIf you know any existing groups like this—or want to be part of creating one—please comment or DM me!Thanks!

  • 2
  • 5
AuntGlow|Peer Support Worker|Last message about 10 hours ago
Celebrate Each Other's Wins! 🥳

Hello Forum Friends! 💛 So, I have been yappin' away with my fellow peer support workers about how many amazing shifts, changes, and adaptations you have all been making throughout your mental health journeys, and we thought it would be wonderful to create a space where you can Celebrate Each Other's Wins! 🥳 This can look like acknowledging someone's courage when reaching out, a challenge they have overcome, a creative project they have completed, or even a thank you for the ways that they have supported you on the forums. Essentially, if you see someone do something that makes you smile - share it! 🤩 Of course, you're more than welcome to let us know if you don't want to participate, as we understand that some people like to celebrate more privately. As always, this is a choose-your-own-adventure activity. ✨ We are very excited to see you celebrate each other (because you deserve it!). 🥰 @rav3n @Ru-bee @tyme @Jynx @RiverSeal @0ddsidian @MissinTooth @creative_writer @ArraDreaming @Captain24 @Till23 @Oaktree @Snowie @Cuddlebear @Dimity @ENKELI @Sparky79 @Bunniekins @TAB @Chasingsunsets @AlwaysMyself @lonemushroom @MotherDuck @avant-garde @BlueBay @Shaz51 @Appleblossom @heartathome @Kashmina @REDLINEZ750 @PeppyPatti @RebelliousAngel @Meowmy @StuF

  • 18
  • 23
Oaktree|Peer Guide|Last message about 20 hours ago
CoMHWA Scholarships

For anyone in Western Australia interested in the Cert IV Mental Health Peer Work course 2026, applications for the CoMHWA scholarships are now open. There is also an information night this Thursday 25th September at North Metro Tafe Leederville. In the lecture room by the library on the second floor. https://comhwa.org.au/news/cert-iv-mhpw-2026/#:~:text=CoMHWA%2C WAPSN and North Metro,Work qualification for 2026 study.

  • 2
  • 1
PR99|New Contributor|Last message about 14 hours ago
Failing at no contact

I am failing at no contact. My ex cancelled the wedding 6 weeks before it was supposed to happen, then did 3 months couples counselling and he still ended it because he couldn’t give even the bare minimum. Through counselling we found out he has been neglecting me for years, my secure attachment has been shattered and I am struggling to maintain no contact. I know I am better off than being with this avoidant man, he has shown his true colours and I know all these things in my head but my heart is struggling to believe that he is incapable of change. I have all the healing processes in place, therapy, guided journals, support systems and they all say the same thing and yet here I am begging a dusty man to love me enough to change. Please if anyone can give me anymore strategies other than blocking it would be helpful because I am terrible at that.

  • 3
  • 2
Former-Member|Not applicable|Last message about 13 hours ago
Last Post

Hi All, This is my last post (opposite of a welcome post) I came here looking to connect with peers, others with “schizophrenia” and specifically the symptom “hearing voices”. Sadly I found this forum to be too heavily moderated [edited by moderator] The good news is I have found my peeps elsewhere. Wanted to send a message to say there is other places out there if anyone else is struggling with all the moderation and rules here and looking to connect with others dealing with schizophrenia and hearing voices. All the best to everyone in their journeys! [Edited be moderator]

  • 5
  • 6
Nila|New Contributor|Last message about 14 hours ago
Living with schizophrenia partner

My wife was diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2016 when she was early 30s. She had private psychiatric care for two years and did very well, but she stopped treatment because she felt the medication was making her gain weight. Since then she has relapsed a couple of times. The last relapse we got the CAT team involved, who helped her get back on medication. She reduced her dose few months back, so looks like now again she is relapsing.Every time she relapsed, she curse me. Saying I'm making her ill. My bad energy gose to her. she gets violent towards me...specially if I ask about medication. Everything I do is negative to her. She ask so much questions which doesn't make any sense and I have to keep answering those if not she go aggressive. She wants me to leave the bedroom...leave the house, divorce her. She threatened she will resign her job so I will not have enough income to pay mortgage.She hides most of her symptoms to others,specially friends. So they think she is well enough. We have 14 yr son, I don't want him to get affected by this. He was small when initially she was ill. But I think he also now getting to know what is happening and moms condition. I can easily go away without suffering and trying this hard to get my wife back to medication. But sametime I don't want my son to loose his mom and loses a family. I guess I will try my best, but I don't know how long I can do this. Just wanted to share my story. I know others have more bigger problems. Hope someone relates to this struggle of life.

  • 3
  • 2
Nugget69|New Contributor|Last message about 14 hours ago
Just need to rant

Hiya, this is my first post, I don’t really know why I’m making it but I really feel like I just need to rant and it would make me feel a little bit better. I’ve got a couple things bothering me but firstly I guess I’ve not really felt a proper emotion to its fullest extent in a while. I was a super emotional teenager, I would have super disproportionate reactions to everything but as of recently I can’t remember the last time I’ve felt anything or remember what it even feels like. If someone asked me what it felt like to be happy or sad I wouldn’t be able to tell them because i genuinely don’t know. I haven’t cried in so long and sometimes I really want to because I feel like it would be such a release but I just can’t, I don’t have any tears. I just feel both so emotion and so emotionally numb at the same time and it’s exhausting. I can’t really talk to anyone about it because I can’t describe it and I also don’t think anyone I know would understand. It’s not like I’m a sad person, everyone thinks I’m so happy and energetic and I almost trick myself into thinking that too but as soon as I’m alone I know that’s not true. on another note, my parents separated early this year and they have each been talking to me about it for years. I’m an adult but I still live with them because the housing market is shit and because of this they still live together too. My dad is an absolute angel and he has been looking after the house and spending time with me but my mum on the other hand who used to be my best friend is dating someone my age now and I can’t even look her in the eye anymore. She disgusts me I’m so disappointed in her. I used to tell her everything and now she sleeps in the room next to me and I talk to her maybe once a week. She’s so emotional, bitchy and so unaware of the fact that I’m actually her daughter and not someone to be her friend. She’s always treated me as more of a friend than a daughter and it used to be fun but sometimes I just really want a mum and I don’t have that. I also think there’s something wrong with me in the sense of potentially autism or adhd. I meet all the criteria for both and without the subject even being brought up people have asked me if I am both or one or the other. I’m a very extroverted person but I do have autistic traits and it runs in my family, my brother being diagnosed with autism when he was young. I struggle so much with my attention and bed rotting, especially with my university work and my school work, I feel like being medicated if I were adhd could help me immensely however getting diagnosed is so expensive and I worry so much that if I were to try to get diagnosed that they would just tell me it’s just my personality and that I’m crazy for thinking I was and then I’ve just waisted thousands of dollars to be told I’m just a little nuts. i want to seek therapy to get my emotions back in check but that’s so expensive as well, I’m a student with a casual job and I can’t ask my parents for help because they would think I’m fine and don’t need to waste money. I don’t even know if it would help because the last time I saw a psychologist they told me the reason why I wasn’t eating and was always tired was because I needed to take multivitamins and I had a massive crash out over it. thanks for coming to my ted talk

  • 3
  • 3

My favourites

Members feature!Log in to add spaces, events and discussions to your favourites.
Resources

All resources

Guidelines and technical support

All guidelines and technical support

Crisis support

SANE services are not designed for crisis support. If you require immediate support, please contact one of the service providers below.

All crisis support
Members online

No one is online right now. Hold tight and someone will be along soon.

If you need urgent assistance, see Need help now
For mental health information, support, and referrals, contact SANE Support Services
SANE Forums is published by SANE with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health
SANE - ABN 92 006 533 606
PO Box 1226, Carlton VIC 3053