Olivia Jurcik Counsellor

11/01/2026

I am one of those people who tends not to follow trends - I am often well behind in streaming shows, that hot new restaurant, or marvelling in the wonders of a good book as it explodes around the globe.

I am not ashamed to say, I've never watched Game of Thrones, I hadn't finished reading a book for years until my recent break, and now I am on book three - Atomic Habits - yes, I know, it was all the rage long before now, but... it just makes sense doesn't it?

Ironic too, given I just recently set my "new years resolutions" which, rather than goals, were simply intentions for my life. It's like a little reminder to say " keep going, keep pushing, dont give up, you're on the right track" - It's easy to lose sight of this sometimes, but consistent intentioned action is key.

06/01/2026

2026 is here...
I took a bit of a social media hiatus over the holiday period to truly disconnect, but, I'm back!

I'm not really in the habit of setting new year resolutions, and this year, I simply want to practice being more intentional... setting goals, doing only things which hold purpose and meaning. I hope this year is full of more beautiful sunrises and sunsets, appreciation of the small things and nature, more kids sports from the sidelines, personal and professional growth, more adventures, less "things", more travel, peace and good health.

Time to set some goals, and make them happen! Happy New Year.

27/12/2025

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, calm and happy Christmas 🎄

Whatever this holiday season brings, it’s important to remember that help is always available, and that you don’t have to navigate the holidays alone.

Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
13 Yarn 13 92 76

16/12/2025

17/11/2025

This Movember, let's all get behind supporting men's mental health.

A quick look at some statistics...

➡️ 43% of men will experience anxiety or depression at some stage in their lives
➡️ 26% admit to delay seeking a health professional when they need it
➡️ Seven out of nine people who die by su***de each day are men.
➡️ Only 37% of men and boys reach out for support when they need it.

These statistics are alarming. You don't have to have all the answers. All it takes is one simple conversation, an ear to listen, and a shoulder to lean on.

03/11/2025

It's Men’s Mental Health Month.

At White Ribbon Australia, we know that looking after your mental health isn't just about you, it’s about being able to support the people around you too. Taking care of yourself gives you the strength and clarity to look out for others.

Check out our Better Guides: Better for Myself has practical tips to manage stress, build resilience and prioritise your wellbeing.

Small steps for yourself can make a big difference for everyone in your life.

Head to our website to read the guides: https://whiteribbon.org.au/not-perfect-better/

(Source: The Australian Bureau Of Statistics)

16/10/2025

Cannabis (also known as w**d, pot, or dope) is the most commonly used drug among young people in Australia. And while many can think of it as harmless, the reality is far more complex.

The active ingredient in cannabis, THC, changes the way your brain communicates. It boosts dopamine, creating feelings of relaxation or euphoria, but it also disrupts memory, judgement, concentration, and reaction times. Over time, these changes can increase the risk of dependence and addiction.

Physically, cannabis can affect your lungs, heart, immune system, and even unborn babies during pregnancy. Psychologically, it can heighten anxiety, depression, paranoia, and, in some cases, trigger hallucinations or panic attacks.

About 1 in 10 people who use cannabis will develop an addiction - and the younger that someone starts, the higher their risk. That’s why early intervention is so critical.

We support individuals and families who are impacted by cannabis and other substance use. From medically supervised detox (if required), through to long-term rehabilitation, our programs are designed to help people break the cycle and rediscover a healthier, more fulfilling life.

13/10/2025

Studies may show that younger people are drinking less, but at what cost? We have seen steady increases year after year with other drugs, both prescribed and illicit. With such high demand across AOD services nationwide, the harms caused by alcohol misuse remain at alarming levels. In my experience alcohol is the single biggest reason for treatment presentations, with methamphetamine (ice) coming in close second.

Younger people are drinking less alcohol in Australia, with Gen Z leading a cultural change that could be long-lasting, a new study has claimed. 🍹🎉

"Generation Z are redefining what it means to socialise and celebrate, and they're doing it with less alcohol," Dr Kirrilly Thompson has said.

MORE DETAILS ON THE STUDY: https://nine.social/11Z4

01/10/2025

🌿 What is Mental Health Month?

October is Mental Health Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of mental wellbeing and reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental health challenges.

Mental health affects everyone. Just like physical health, it exists on a spectrum and it can fluctuate depending on life stressors, support systems, and personal resilience.

This month is a reminder that:
👉 Looking after your mental health is just as important as looking after your body.
👉 Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
👉 Recovery and resilience are possible.

💡 Let’s use this month to start conversations, share resources, and encourage one another to take small but meaningful steps toward mental wellbeing.

📞 If you or someone you know is struggling: Lifeline 13 11 14, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, 13YARN 13 92 76.

Need support for alcohol/substance dependence disorders? Call Hader Clinic Queensland on 1300 856 847.

11/09/2025

💬 R U OK? Day: A Conversation Could Change a Life

Today is R U OK? Day, an important reminder that a simple question - “Are you OK?” - has the power to start life-changing conversations.

In addiction, I’ve seen how isolation and silence can deepen someone’s pain. Often, people don’t need us to “fix” things, they just need to be heard without judgement. Checking in with a colleague, friend, or loved one can be the opening they need to share what’s really going on.

The message of R U OK? Day is clear: we don’t need to wait for a crisis to ask the question. By making connection a part of our everyday lives, we can create a stronger safety net for the people we care about.

So today, and every day...let’s keep checking in, listening deeply, and reminding those around us that they’re not alone.

📞 If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:

Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line): 13 92 76

10/09/2025

🌍 World Su***de Prevention Day: Changing the Narrative on Su***de

Today is World Su***de Prevention Day, a time to reflect on how we can shift the way we speak about and respond to su***de in our communities.

This year’s theme, “Changing the Narrative on Su***de”, asks us to move away from silence, stigma, and shame toward open, compassionate conversations.

In my work, I am reminded every day that small actions matter. A check-in, a listening ear, or helping someone feel seen can be life-saving. Su***de prevention is not just about crisis response; it’s about building a culture where people feel safe to speak openly, seek help, and know that they are not alone.

Changing the narrative means recognising that:
👉 Talking about su***de does not cause harm - silence does.
👉 Asking someone directly about their struggles can open the door to hope.
👉 Recovery is possible, and support is always within reach.

Today, let’s commit to conversations that replace stigma with understanding, and despair with connection. Together, we can help rewrite the story on su***de.

📞 If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
13YARN (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line): 13 92 76

06/09/2025

💙 Father's Day is a day of many stories - and all of them matter.
Beyond Blue's free telephone (1300 22 4636) and online counselling service (beyondblue.org.au) is available 24/7 for everyone in Australia.