Kambalda raises mental health awareness
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Published: Wednesday, 23 October 2019 at 9:00:00 AM
Last month, the Kambalda Community Resource Centre (KCRC) hosted a R U OK? day, raising awareness of mental health issues and the importance of community wellbeing.
Friday September 13 was a chance for the community to come together and ask a simple – yet vital – question: R U OK? A diverse range of community members joined together at Lion’s Park for a BBQ and learnt how to establish meaningful connections with others and start conversations with people that may be struggling. Most importantly, children and adults alike learnt that you don’t need to be an expert to reach out.
Two large planter boxes – complete with soil – were kindly donated to the local Kambalda West Playgroup and Seniors Groups, to grow a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers. Celebrating this donation, the KCRC joined with Hope Community Services, the KCRF staff and playgroup families on the sunny Spring morning. It is widely agreed that gardening is beneficial to mental health – gardening or even viewing plants can reduce stress, and the risks of developing anxiety or depression. This donation demonstrates the KCRC’s – and Shire’s – commitment to a holistic mental health approach.
Nationally celebrated this year on September 12, R U OK? day has been a fixture on Australian calendars for a decade, and its relevancy continues to grow rapidly on a global scale. Ultimately, the day aims to teach people to look for warning signs in others and following this up through three words that lead to a bigger conversation. It is also about listening and becoming part of a vital support network – 365 days a year.
“Last month, the community learnt that R U OK? Day isn’t about just the day itself. It’s about the question - something that can - and should be asked - any day of the year. It could lead to a conversation that could change, or save, a life. If you notice someone struggling, please take the time to connect and ask if you R OK? After all, looking out for others is what community is all about,” said Shire President Malcolm Cullen.
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