Awkward Conversations: My girlfriend's mental health is affecting our relationship

Welcome to the latest instalment in our Awkward Conversations series.

Awkward Conversations is an IMPACT Community Services' initiative where we explore some of the challenging issues happening in homes across the region.

Today we look at how mental health can affect a relationship and how we can manage the conversation around it.

Awkward Conversations: Should I move to Brisbane to look for work?

Awkward Conversations: Focusing on teenage same-sex relationships.

Awkward Conversations: My b/f wants a naked shot of me.

Question: My girlfriend has a mental health problem and it’s freaking me out. There have been too many arguments or times when she says she isn’t herself and does things that cause us both pain. She now says she is going to the doctor, finally agreeing with me she needs to ask someone for help. She has lost friends and may lose her job. I’m constantly afraid she will harm herself. I can’t stay with her if things don’t change but if I don’t stay she might not get help. What should I do?

Response: Well, you obviously care about her, so help her get to the doctor, for a mental health plan. Or maybe a psychologist and/or psychiatrist. If you think you might be a bit too close to the subject, have a support worker attend with them for visits. Maybe you can organise counselling and attend a mental health first aid course.

For 24/7 counselling and support
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
• Kids Help Line – 1800 55 1800
• Alcohol & Drug Info Services (ADIS) – 1800 177 833
• Queensland Health — 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
These numbers are either free or the cost of a local call.