The cast of Home and Away have opened up about how they keep their mental health in check for R U OK? Day.
Zoe Ventoura, Orpheus Pledger and Jake Ryan shared their tips for looking after their mental health, from meditation to exercise.
“I take care of my mental health by meditating as much as I can. I try to do 20 minutes twice a day,” said Zoe (who plays Alex Neilson on Home and Away).
“Sometimes life gets too busy but I just try to fit it in a couple of minutes when I can.”
R U OK Day: Home And Away stars talk mental health
Orpheus Pledger, who plays Mason Morgan on the Channel 7 series explained that breathing deeply helps him.
“It has taken me so long to just become aware of something so simple as breathing,” he admitted.
“It brings me back into alignment of myself.”
Jake (known for playing Robbo Shaw on Home and Away) said that checking in with friends is a form of self-care.
“We can all sit down and talk to each other about how we are feeling,” he said. “I know it is a cliche and everyone says it but just getting stuff off your chest and voicing your concerns and your fears and your worries goes a long way to getting on top of it.”
In a similar fashion, Courtney Miller (who plays Bella Nixon), said her mother is a great source of support.
For Sophie Dillman (who plays Ziggy Astoni on the Channel 7 soap) staying hydrated and keeping active keeps her grounded.
“I try to exercise every day to breathe in the fresh air, to break a sweat and to be by the water,” she said. “Everyone needs to know that it is okay to not be okay and you can call upon your friends and family and even the kindness of strangers if you are struggling.”
Rohan Nichol plays Sophie’s on-screen father, Ben Astoni (who tackles depression on the show).
“Mental health is one of those things that, it can get away from you in a heartbeat. And it is not as obvious as physical stuff. Volunteer work has really been good for me because you feel useful. You’re needed, you have an impact and people are gracious and that impacts on you.”
If you would like to talk to someone about mental health call Headspace on 1800 650 890.
