The importance of connection
I’ve just returned from a month of leave feeling rejuvenated – I took time out and reconnected with family in Europe. On returning to Australia, I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the Hunter Valley bus crash and the tragic loss of 10 lives. As news circulated and details emerged, we realised the ripple effect such an event can have on us, individually and collectively. I want to acknowledge the impacts on people – those directly affected and others – including the first responders, and all the families, neighbours and communities who are also grieving and those wanting to help. These impacts can have significant and long-term mental health implications and it is important that we support each other through this time. If you or someone you know needs help, available supports are listed on our website at mhaustralia.org/need-help. Asking for help, while it might be difficult or confusing to know where to start, is critical in finding the right support. This week is also Men’s Health Week and its theme of ‘Healthy Habits’ encourages men and boys to build healthy habits by identifying small changes they can make that benefit their health and wellbeing – including their mental health. Several of our members work at the intersection of gender and mental health. Movember is one organisation making an impact by encouraging men to build social connections and have deeper conversations, and offer community-based, grassroots solutions. Men’s Sheds are another valuable initiative, providing space for men to meet up, make, teach and repair things, improving their mental health implicitly through community connection and contribution. In our lived experience community too, we also value those men who share their stories to break down barriers and advocate for change. This week serves as a reminder that distress, disaster and tragedy can affect all of us. It is also a reminder of the importance of coming together, and building strong connections in our communities, to support us through challenging times. Carolyn Nikoloski CEO, Mental Health Australia |