Blue Tree Day for rural mental health awareness

The Capertee Valley community recently completed their Blue Tree Project to raise awareness of rural mental health concerns, particularly in the wake of December 2019 bushfires.

Resulting from the ongoing partnership and support between Lithgow City Council and the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District in the wake of recent natural disasters, both organisations have worked with the Capertee Valley community to complete their local ‘Blue Tree Project’. This event aimed to facilitate a local awareness of mental health issues in a community still recovering from the effects of recent natural disasters.

“Even the most resilient communities, such as that of the Capertee Valley, need to break the ongoing stigma that’s attached to mental health,” said Lithgow City Council Mayor, Councillor Ray Thompson. “By painting a dead tree blue, regenerating local plant life and sharing a morning tea over a campfire, the Capertee Valley community had the chance to share the valuable message that no-one should suffer in silence.”

“To anyone that needs to hear it, it’s okay to not be okay, and that’s what this event was about. I am proud through use of the bushfire recovery assistance provided by the federal government and materials provided by our local Bunnings, Lithgow City Council was able to dedicate the resources required to make this project a reality. I thank Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District and Council staff for working together for the sole purpose of providing assistance to our rural communities.”

If you need support or have concerns regarding the mental health of others, there are many services available to assist. For professional support, please visit https://www.bluetreeproject.com.au/seek-help. Take a look to see what might work best for you.