It’s a decreasing figure, but still a cause for concern, especially in regional communities where rates of self-harm and suicide sit significantly higher than in metropolitan areas.
Those stark figures are a big part of the reason Charles L. King & Co First National host the annual long lunch for mental health.
Event organiser and CLK spokesperson Christy O’Brien said the company used the event to facilitate hard conversations, promote local services, share stories, and highlight the importance of “mental fitness”.
“We want people to come along and get more than they give,” Ms O’Brien said.
“The main reason we host the lunch is to raise awareness and funds for both Headspace and the (Mental Health and Wellbeing) Local.
“It’s about providing information about the mental health support services we have here in town because often people don’t know what help they can access.
“For example, people’s don’t know they can walk into the Local ‒ which is like an adult version of Headspace ‒ without a referral.”
This year’s lunch, the third edition of the event, will feature a panel of local mental health experts, mental fitness tips, and a talk from author and OCD advocate Penny Moodie.
“We give all of our staff the day off and invite the businesses we work with throughout town to come and take some time out to focus on their mental fitness and listen to the experiences of others,” Ms O’Brien said.
“It can be particularly hard for business people and men to open up about mental heath in part because there’s a perception they’re big and strong and should be able to cope with everything, but we’re all vulnerable.
“I think we’re better educated about mental health, but there’s still this idea we don’t need support until we’re in crisis or something happens to us.
“Ultimately though, no matter where we’re at, we can do a little bit of something every day to look after our mental health.
“If we have 100 people in the room, and they all walk away feeling like they need to look after themselves a bit better or check in on a mate, then we’ve done our job.”
The event will take place at 11.30am on Friday, October 9 at Morrisons Winery in Moama.
To find out more or buy tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/37wbfn65
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