The resources webpage has been launched by Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) and is a result of collaboration between a range of organisations including NSW Police, NSW Ambulance, Department of Education, headspace, Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation and federal members for Farrer and Riverina.
MPHN chief executive Melissa Neal said the group met late last year to discuss the initiative.
“Together we identified several clear priority areas for our region to support mental health, suicide prevention and postvention including building awareness of what mental health support is available and building community capacity in terms of equipping communities with the necessary tools to support people experiencing mental ill-health,” she said.
“While we are busy progressing much of this work, we have developed this resources webpage to help support our local organisations and community groups foster positive mental health and wellbeing, increase awareness about available supports and to help reduce stigma.
“Our aim is for community leaders, community committees and organisations to use these resources in their networks, as it’s through the promotion of appropriate mental health messages, language and training, we can collectively work towards better mental health outcomes.
“I would encourage people to have a look at the webpage and see what materials you can use within your networks.’’
The page includes:
■ social media tiles promoting help-seeking behaviours and relevant contact information;
■ evidence-based mental health training opportunities to upskill the workforce and community to feel able to support someone at risk or experiencing mental health concerns;
■ an easy guide for organisations to pledge their commitment to using safe language by signing the National Communications Charter; and
■ information about where to get local support.
To access the new resources page, visit mphn.org.au/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention
