General News
14 September, 2022
Mental health presentations launch
A NEW initiative aiming to end the stigma of mental health issues has officially begun with a diverse range of local workers taking time to talk about mental health and end the cycle of silence.
A NEW initiative aiming to end the stigma of mental health issues has officially begun with a diverse range of local workers taking time to talk about mental health and end the cycle of silence.
The Let’s Talk Foundationlaunched the pilot initiative in July, which has seen Terang become the first south west town to host community-led discussions to confront the stigma of mental illness.
The discussions will be held with local businesses, community groups, schools and sporting clubs.
A discussion was held last week with more than a dozen workers at Ridley Agriproducts Terang.
Let’s Talk Foundation community engagement officer Alexandra Mellert said around five presentations had been held so far with overwhelming success.
“The community has really gotten behind the message of needing to talk and breaking the stigma,”she said.
“Overall we’ve had really good interest in terms of businesses wanting us to come and do the presentations.
“I’ve been overall really positive.”
Ms Mellert said members of the community who have been involved in the presentation have shown a willingness to speak openly.
“It’s been great to see so many people take it serious,” she said.
“It can be hard to make a culture change but we haven’t had that.
“People have been really on board, people have been happy to share their own stories, and it has created a dialogue during presentations.
“The community as a whole has been fantastic in taking the message seriously, and wanting to change the stigma which surrounds mental health.”
Former Terang native Ken Solly spoke with Ridley employees at the presentation, sharing his personal experience living with mental illness.
Often confronting in the struggles Mr Solly faced, he also spoke about the importance of reaching out and seeking help.
Mr Solly spoke about his decision to confront his mental health struggles and the steps he took which led him on a path to better health.
“If you’re not well, just talk to someone,” he said.
“Please start talking.
“Look after your mate, and encourage them to speak with a GP or someone they can trust.”
Ms Mellert said having people like Mr Solly to share their lived experiences during presentations was a catalyst for change.
“One of the key things we do in breaking the stigma is sharing personal stories, and it’s powerful,” she said.
“We’re lucky to have a range of speakers who are prepared to share their stories, to be open and vulnerable.
“It takes a lot of courage, so we’re incredibly lucky and very appreciative to have people like that.
“The impact someone’s story can have is quite amazing.”
Any businesses or community organisations interested in hosting a presentation can visit www.letstalkaustralia.org for more information.
You are not alone. Mental health support is available through Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636 and lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help now, call Triple Zero (000).